1. The process by which a sperm cell becomes capable of fertilizing an egg, involving biochemical changes in the sperm membrane.
Usage: biology; reproductive physiology
2. The act or process of making someone capable or qualified to do something; enablement.
Usage: formal; less common

Examples

• Capacitation is a crucial step that must occur before sperm can successfully fertilize an egg.
• The capacitation process involves changes to the sperm's surface proteins and membrane composition.
• Without proper capacitation, even healthy sperm may be unable to penetrate the egg.
• Researchers study capacitation to better understand fertility and develop new reproductive treatments.
• The capacitation of workers through education and training improves workplace productivity.