Tenderization is the process of softening or breaking down meat fibers to make them more tender and juicy. There are several synonyms for the term, including marinating, brining, pounding, and beating. Marinating involves soaking the meat in a mixture of acids, enzymes, and spices, while brining involves soaking it in a saltwater solution. Pounding and beating both involve physically tenderizing the meat by hitting it with a mallet or other tool. Other synonyms for tenderization include braising, stewing, and slow cooking, which involve cooking the meat for an extended period of time to break down the tough fibers and make it more tender.