evangelize

[ ih-van-juh-lahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, e·van·ge·lized, e·van·ge·liz·ing.

1. to preach the gospel to.
2. to convert to Christianity.

verb (used without object)

, e·van·ge·lized, e·van·ge·liz·ing.

1. to preach the gospel; act as an evangelist.

evangelize

/ ɪˈvændʒɪˌlaɪz /

verb

1. to preach the Christian gospel or a particular interpretation of it (to)
2. intr to advocate a cause with the object of making converts

Derived Forms

• eˌvangeliˈzation, noun
• eˈvangeˌlizer, noun

Other Words From

• e·vange·li·zation noun
• e·vange·lizer noun
• une·vange·lized adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of evangelize¹

1350–1400; Middle English evangelisen < Late Latin evangelizāre < Late Greek euangelízein. See evangel ¹, -ize

Example Sentences

All of this might have remained in the realm of intellectual exploit had Tanton not begun to formalize and evangelize his beliefs.

From Salon

The pairing of "White Evangelicals" with "Biblical Conservatives," however, provides a hint: According to the standard definition of "Evangelical" in the Bebbington Quadrilateral, adherents believe in "a particular regard for the Bible," or the belief that all essential truth can be found in scripture, among other key tenets such as their namesake mission to evangelize the Christian faith.

From Salon

It is unclear whether this misdiagnosis might have been the product of sheer negligence or a fraudulent excuse to further evangelize Kamke against abortion.

From Slate

I’m here to evangelize for this essential intra-California trip.

From Los Angeles Times

In that way, the choice to debut “Galilee, 34” at an Orange County theater “is mirroring what the play is about,” said actor Berryman of the characters’ debate about where to evangelize.

From Los Angeles Times