brutalize
UK: ˈbruːtəlaɪz | US: ˈbruːtəlaɪz
vt. to treat someone or something with extreme cruelty or violence
vt. to make something brutal or harsh in character
vt. to become brutal or desensitized to violence
The word "brutalize" stems from the Latin root "brutus" (meaning "dull, stupid, or brutal"), which evolved into the English adjective "brutal" (savage, cruel). The suffix "-ize" (from Greek "-izein") was later added to form a verb meaning "to make or become brutal." The term reflects a progression from describing inherent brutality to the act of inflicting or adopting brutal behavior. Historically, it often appears in contexts of violence, oppression, or desensitization.
The dictator's regime sought to brutalize dissenters into submission.
War can brutalize even the most compassionate individuals.
The film critiques how systemic injustice brutalizes marginalized communities.
Repeated exposure to violence may brutalize a person's moral sensitivity.
The novel explores how poverty brutalizes the human spirit.