# ablate

/ˌəˈbɫeɪt/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ablate
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

to remove or wear away a surface by using heat or friction. It is often used when talking about spacecraft or materials that protect against extreme temperatures.

For teachers: to remove or wear away a surface by means of heat, friction, or chemical action. Often describes the process of material removal from a spacecraft during re-entry into the atmosphere.

## Examples

- The heat shield ablates to protect the pilot.
- Engineers designed the rocket to ablate its outer layer during the intense friction of atmospheric re-entry.
- The ablation of the protective coating is a controlled process that ensures the underlying structure remains intact until the vehicle reaches a safe altitude.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.