sexualize

[ sek-shoo-uh-lahyzor, especially British, seks-yoo- ]

verb (used with object)

, sex·u·al·ized, sex·u·al·iz·ing.

1. to render sexual; endow with sexual characteristics.

sexualize

/ ˈsɛksjʊəˌlaɪz /

verb

1. to make or become sexual or sexually aware
2. to give or acquire sexual associations

Derived Forms

• ˌsexualiˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• sex·u·al·i·za·tion [sek-shoo-, uh, -lahy-, zey, -sh, uh, n, seks-yoo-] especially British, sex·u·al·i·sa·tion noun
• de·sex·u·al·ize especially British, de·sex·u·al·ise verb (used with object) desexualized desexualizing or (especially British) desexualised desexualising

Word History and Origins

Origin of sexualize¹

First recorded in 1830–40; sexual + -ize

Example Sentences

However, the song’s commercial success has been eclipsed by the controversy around its lyrics; “A mamacita since 14” is just one of the lines that has been interpreted as sexualizing underage girls.

From Los Angeles Times

The SBA took issue with images of Club Cobra dancers in “seemingly sexualized” poses and “revealing” outfits posted on the business’ social media platforms.

From Los Angeles Times

Comparing liberals to a 15-year-old girl who slams her bedroom door in a tantrum, Carlson waxed poetic about the sexualized abuse of a minor.

From Salon

Even worse, there is also another meme circulating on the internet that sexualizes Elphaba, featuring text that reads: "Is your p***y green?"

From Salon

We see it online in the sickening, violent, sexualized hate directed at women who have power or who merely speak up for themselves.

From Salon