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Definition of: mercerize
(mûr′sə·rīz) v.t. ·ized, ·iz·ing
To treat (cotton fabrics) with caustic soda or potash, so as to increase their color–absorbing qualities and impart a silky gloss. [after John Mercer, 1791–1866, English inventor]
—mer·cer·i·za·tion (mûr′sər·ə·zā′shən, ī·zā′shən) noun
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