relativize

[ rel-uh-tuh-vahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, rel·a·tiv·ized, rel·a·tiv·iz·ing.

1. to regard as or make relative.

relativize

/ ˈrɛlətɪvaɪz /

verb

1. to make or become relative
2. tr to apply the theory of relativity to

Derived Forms

• ˌrelativiˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• rela·tiv·i·zation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of relativize¹

First recorded in 1930–35; relative + -ize

Example Sentences

"Despite all attempts to deny, conceal, gloss over or relativize the issue, the signs of climate change are here and increasingly evident," he said.

From Reuters

Or they will “relativize” the scandals, said Nara Pavão, a political scientist at Federal University of Pernambuco.

From Washington Post

“We don’t want to relativize it. It stands on its own.”

From Washington Post

For these critics of Francis, the claim relativizes the centrality of the Catholic faith in human salvation.

From Seattle Times

For these critics of Francis, the claim relativizes the centrality of the Catholic faith in human salvation.

From Washington Times