privatize

[ prahy-vuh-tahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, pri·va·tized, pri·va·tiz·ing.

1. to transfer from public or government control or ownership to private enterprise:

   a campaign promise to privatize some of the public lands.

2. to make exclusive; delimit or appropriate:

   special-interest groups attempting to privatize social issues.

privatize

/ ˈpraɪvɪˌtaɪz /

verb

1. tr to transfer (the production of goods or services) from the public sector of an economy into private ownership and operation

Derived Forms

• ˌprivatiˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• priva·ti·zation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of privatize¹

First recorded in 1945–50; private + -ize

Example Sentences

Trump and conservative allies could reduce federal financial aid, privatize student loans and end student loan forgiveness.

From Los Angeles Times

The group added that these issues are rather a result of "decades of federal and provincial policies that have underfunded and privatized public services".

From BBC

Some conservatives have pushed to privatize the program and create personal savings accounts in their place.

From Los Angeles Times

It would privatize the student loan market and get rid of the interest holidays and rate caps that make borrowing viable for low-income students.

From Salon

The City Council has approved policies to restrict minors’ access to books and is considering options to privatize the public library.

From Los Angeles Times