civilization
UK: ˌsɪv.ɪ.laɪˈzeɪ.ʃən | US: ˌsɪv.ə.ləˈzeɪ.ʃən
n. An advanced stage of human social and cultural development, marked by progress in arts, science, and governance.
n. The process of developing or adopting a more organized or refined way of life.
n. The collective cultural achievements of a society.
civilization = civil<citizen> + ization<process of becoming>
- civil (from Latin civis, meaning "citizen") → Pertaining to citizens or communal life.
- ization (noun-forming suffix from Greek -izein via Latin -izare) → Indicates the process of becoming or transforming.
Etymology Origin:
The word civilization traces back to the Latin civilis (relating to citizens), reflecting the idea of societal advancement tied to urban life and governance. The suffix -ization was later added in French (civiliser → civilisation) to denote the process of becoming "civilized." The term emerged in the 18th century to describe societies with developed institutions, contrasting with "barbarism." Its logic hinges on the evolution from individual citizenship (civil) to collective societal progress (-ization).
Ancient Egypt is often studied as one of the earliest cradles of civilization.
The spread of agriculture was a key milestone in human civilization.
Modern civilization faces challenges like climate change and inequality.
The museum exhibits artifacts from Mayan civilization.
Language and writing systems are hallmarks of advanced civilization.