motorize

[ moh-tuh-rahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, mo·tor·ized, mo·tor·iz·ing.

1. to furnish with a motor, as a vehicle.
2. to supply with motor-driven vehicles, usually in the place of horses and horse-drawn vehicles.

motorize

/ ˈməʊtəˌraɪz /

verb

1. to equip with a motor
2. to provide (military units) with motor vehicles

Derived Forms

• ˌmotoriˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• motor·i·zation noun
• non·motor·ized adjective
• un·motor·ized adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of motorize¹

First recorded in 1910–15; motor + -ize

Example Sentences

And there are some worthwhile detours — into the early history of automotive manufacturing, the fascist obsession with fast cars and Hitler’s plans to motorize Germany’s civilians as well as its military.

From New York Times

Sensory technology could help motorize the prosthesis, allowing for improved gait when running and other improvements.

From Washington Times

“As in, ‘what if we motorize the hurdy gurdy?’ ”

From New York Times

He wished he could think up a way of motorizing it, fix it up like sort of a four-wheeled motor scooter.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• industrialize