politicize

[ puh-lit-uh-sahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, po·lit·i·cized, po·lit·i·ciz·ing.

1. to bring a political character or flavor to; make political:

   to politicize a private dispute.

verb (used without object)

, po·lit·i·cized, po·lit·i·ciz·ing.

1. to engage in or discuss politics.

politicize

/ pəˈlɪtɪˌsaɪz /

verb

1. tr to render political in tone, interest, or awareness
2. intr to participate in political discussion or activity

Derived Forms

• poˌliticiˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• po·liti·ci·zation noun
• depo·liti·ci·zation noun
• depo·liti·cize verb (used with object) depoliticized depoliticizing
• nonpo·liti·ci·zation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of politicize¹

First recorded in 1750–60; politic(al) + -ize

Example Sentences

It is the only aspect of the Olympics that needn’t be politicized or commercialized.

From Los Angeles Times

“They have spent public funds in troubling ways, adopted lax standards and allowed rigor to decline and have allowed the research enterprise to become politicized and ideological.”

From Los Angeles Times

“An independent just beat a Democrat who tried to politicize the race. ... People ultimately want to have safety for themselves and their families.”

From Los Angeles Times

That these electors would lack legal standing — Gov. Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, is the only person who can legally certify the commonwealth's electors — may not be an obstacle in an increasingly politicized judiciary.

From Salon

When that system is politicized, he added, community members are the ones ultimately hurt.

From Los Angeles Times