peroxidation, chemical compound containing two oxygen atoms, each of which is bonded to the other and to a radical or some element other than oxygen; Peroxides are unstable, releasing oxygen when heated, and are powerful oxidizing agents. Peroxides may be formed directly by the reaction of an element or compound with oxygen. 1 Phagocytic or phagocyte phag·o·cyte (fàg¹e-sìt´) noun A cell, such as a white blood cell, that engulfs and absorbs waste material, harmful microorganisms, or other foreign bodies in the bloodstream and tissues. — phag´o·cyt¹ic (-sît¹îk) adjective

the process by which fatty acids get oxidized. Breaking down to form more free radicals. Rancidness. Age associated changes in enzymes, proteins, nucleotides, DNA, and cell membranes may all be attributed to reactions initiated by lipid peroxides.

Peroxidation is the act of an enzyme, called peroxidase, catalyzing the oxidation of various substances in the presence of hydrogen peroxide, usually converting to water in the process.