industrialize

[ in-duhs-tree-uh-lahyz ]

verb (used with object)

industrialized, industrializing.

1. to introduce industry into (an area) on a large scale.
2. to convert to the ideals, methods, aims, etc., of industrialism.

verb (used without object)

industrialized, industrializing.

1. to undergo industrialization.
2. to follow or espouse industrialism.

industrialize

/ ɪnˈdʌstrɪəˌlaɪz /

verb

1. tr to develop industry on an extensive scale in (a country, region, etc)
2. intr (of a country, region, etc) to undergo the development of industry on an extensive scale

Derived Forms

• inˌdustrialiˈzation, noun

Other Word Forms

• in·dustri·al·i·zation noun
• nonin·dustri·al·ized adjective
• over·in·dustri·al·ize verb overindustrialized overindustrializing
• semi-in·dustri·al·ized adjective
• unin·dustri·al·ized adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of industrialize¹

First recorded in 1880–85; industrial + -ize

Example Sentences

They were united by fears that the spectacular coast was in danger of becoming overdeveloped, heavily industrialized, ecologically diminished and irreversibly privatized.

From Los Angeles Times

In industrialized countries, a significant portion of current waste stems from trade standards and consumer preferences that prioritize the perfect appearance of fresh produce.

From Salon

In South Korea, the country’s sprawling family-run conglomerates turbocharged the "Miracle on the Han River" by marshaling capital, technology and labor to industrialize the country at breakneck speed.

From Salon

Carter understood problems afflicting the world as spiritual challenges in part, noting that industrialized Western society had failed to adopt Christian principles of concern and caring.

From Los Angeles Times

By many gender equality metrics, South Korea lags behind much of the industrialized world.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• motorize