tr.v. rec·ti·fied, rec·ti·fy·ing, rec·ti·fies 1. a. To set right; correct: rectified the situation by adding more chairs so that more people could sit. See Synonyms at correct. b. To correct by calculation or adjustment: rectified the mathematical error. 2. Chemistry To refine or purify, especially by distillation. 3. Electronics To convert (alternating current) into direct current. 4. To adjust (the proof of alcoholic beverages) by adding water or other liquids. [Middle English rectifien, from Old French rectifier, from Medieval Latin rēctificāre : Latin rēctus, right; see reg- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots + Latin -ficāre, -fy.] recti·fi′a·ble adj. rec′ti·fi·cation (-fĭ-kāshən) n. |
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