civilize
UK: ˈsɪv.əl.aɪz | US: ˈsɪv.əl.aɪz
vt. to bring out of a primitive or savage state and into a more advanced or orderly condition
vt. to refine or educate in matters of culture, manners, or social norms
vt. (archaic) to make legally subject to civil authority
civilize = civil<relating to citizens> + ize<verb-forming suffix>
- civil: From Latin civilis ("relating to citizens"), derived from civis ("citizen"). In English, it evolved to denote politeness or societal order.
- ize: A verb-forming suffix of Greek origin (-izein), adopted via Latin -izare, indicating "to make or become."
Etymology Origin:
The word civilize emerged in the early 17th century, combining civil (rooted in the Latin concept of civic life) with -ize to mean "to make civilized." It reflects the Enlightenment ideal of societal progress, where "civilization" was contrasted with perceived barbarism. The morphemes logically align: civil anchors the word in societal norms, while -ize transforms it into an action.
Missionaries aimed to civilize indigenous tribes through education and religion.
Ancient Rome sought to civilize conquered territories by introducing laws and infrastructure.
Some argue that technology alone cannot civilize a society without ethical foundations.
The colonizers claimed their duty was to civilize "uncultured" populations.
Parents often try to civilize their children by teaching table manners.