The expression “coffee break” was first attested in 1952 in glossy magazine advertisements by the Pan-American Coffee Bureau.
neutralizing
(American spelling) present participle of neutralize
Source: Wiktionary
Neu"tral*ize, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Neutralized; p. pr. & vb. n. Neutralizing.] Etym: [Cf. F. neutraliser.]
1. To render neutral; to reduce to a state of neutrality. So here I am neutralized again. Sir W. Scott.
2. (Chem.)
Definition: To render inert or imperceptible the peculiar affinities of, as a chemical substance; to destroy the effect of; as, to neutralize an acid with a base.
3. To destroy the peculiar or opposite dispositions of; to reduce to a state of indifference inefficience; to counteract; as, to neutralize parties in government; to neutralize efforts, opposition, etc. Counter citations that neutralize each other. E. Everett.
Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition
5 November 2024
(verb) draw out a discussion or process in order to gain time; “The speaker temporized in order to delay the vote”
The expression “coffee break” was first attested in 1952 in glossy magazine advertisements by the Pan-American Coffee Bureau.