jeopardize

[ jep-er-dahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, jeop·ard·ized, jeop·ard·iz·ing.

1. to put in jeopardy; hazard; risk; imperil:

   He jeopardized his life every time he dived from the tower.

jeopardize

/ ˈdʒɛpəˌdaɪz /

verb

1. to risk; hazard

   he jeopardized his job by being persistently unpunctual

2. to put in danger; imperil

Other Words From

• re·jeopard·ize verb (used with object) rejeopardized rejeopardizing
• un·jeopard·ized adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of jeopardize¹

First recorded in 1640–50; jeopard(y) + -ize

Example Sentences

In August, county Supervisor Steve Brandau surprised the developers when he asked the board to vote on withdrawing county support for the project, jeopardizing the state funds.

From Los Angeles Times

“This action unnecessarily jeopardized the safety of everyone in the vicinity of the park,” the release said.

From Los Angeles Times

That act pushed the fading star into performing even though he was nervous that the special could potentially further jeopardize his career.

From Salon

Both have family lives that are jeopardized by their work and there’s an uncanny parallel between the two, even though their paths rarely intersect.

From Los Angeles Times

She said her office is keeping a close watch on the situation in Shasta County, and is poised to send additional election monitors if dissent jeopardizes the vote.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• imperil
• threaten