commercialize
UK: kəˈmɜːʃəlaɪz | US: kəˈmɜːrʃəlaɪz
vt. to adapt or alter for profit-driven purposes
vt. to introduce a product or service into the market
vt. to make something conform to commercial standards
The word "commercialize" combines "commercial," derived from Latin commercium (trade, business), with the suffix "-ize," from Greek -izein (to make or become). "Commercial" entered English via Old French commercial in the 17th century, originally describing trade-related activities. The suffix "-ize" was later added to form a verb meaning "to make something subject to commercial principles." The term reflects the expansion of market economies, where non-commercial domains (e.g., art, education) are increasingly adapted for profit.
The company plans to commercialize its new solar technology next year.
Critics argue that festivals have become overly commercialized.
Universities often struggle to balance research goals with pressures to commercialize discoveries.
The artist refused to commercialize her work despite lucrative offers.
Governments invest in startups to help them commercialize innovative ideas.