criminalize

[ krim-uh-nl-ahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, crim·i·nal·ized, crim·i·nal·iz·ing.

1. to make punishable as a crime:

   To reduce the graffiti on subway cars, he wants to criminalize the selling of spray paint to minors.

2. to make a criminal of:

   Drug use has criminalized him.

criminalize

/ ˈkrɪmɪnəˌlaɪz /

verb

1. to make (an action or activity) criminal
2. to treat (a person) as a criminal

Derived Forms

• ˌcriminaliˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• crimi·nal·i·zation noun
• recrim·i·nal·i·zation noun
• re·crimi·nal·ize verb (used with object) recriminalized recriminalizing

Word History and Origins

Origin of criminalize¹

First recorded in 1955–60; criminal + -ize

Example Sentences

They floated the idea that such a prosecution, if allowed to stand, would criminalize routine dealings between elected officials and constituents.

From Los Angeles Times

“The ground is fertile,” said Jesse Rabinowitz, campaign and communications director for the National Homelessness Law Center, which fights laws aimed at criminalizing homelessness.

From Los Angeles Times

Doctors who provide such care in California are legally shielded from laws criminalizing it in other states.

From Los Angeles Times

"If you criminalize them, they're less likely to come to the medical establishment."

From Salon

“Prop 312 does not change the city’s commitment to lead with education and services and not criminalize homelessness,” said Dan Wilson, communications director.

From Los Angeles Times