Anodize is a word that means to coat a metal surface with a protective oxide layer. There are several synonyms for this word that can also be used to describe the same process, such as oxidize, electroplate, and galvanize. The term electroplate specifically refers to the use of electricity to coat metal surfaces with a thin layer of another metal. Galvanize has a more general meaning, referring to any process that helps to protect metal from corrosion or rust. Anodizing is a popular method of protecting metal surfaces and is commonly used in products such as car parts, electrical components, and jewelry.