hy·drate (hī'drāt')
n.
A solid compound containing water molecules combined in a definite ratio as an integral part of the crystal.


v., -drat·ed, -drat·ing, -drates.

v.tr.

1. To rehydrate.
2. To supply water to (a person, for example) in order to restore or maintain fluid balance: "Cold water is the fastest and safest way to hydrate an ordinary athlete" (Jane E. Brody).

v.intr.
To become a hydrate.

hydration hy·dra'tion n.
hydrator hy'dra'tor n.

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The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

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