jeopardize
UK: ˈdʒep.ə.daɪz | US: ˈdʒep.ɚ.daɪz
vt. to put something or someone at risk of harm, loss, or failure
vt. to endanger or compromise a situation or outcome
jeopardize = jeopard<risk> + ize<verb suffix>
- jeopard<risk>: Derived from Old French jeu parti ("divided game" or "uncertain outcome"), later evolving into Middle English jupartie (danger or risk).
- ize<verb suffix>: A suffix of Greek origin (via Latin -izare) used to form verbs meaning "to make" or "to cause to become."
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to the Old French phrase jeu parti ("a game with even chances"), reflecting uncertainty or risk. Over time, jeopard in English came to mean "peril," and the suffix -ize was added to create the verb "to put into danger." The evolution mirrors the logical progression from a neutral "uncertain outcome" to an active "endangering action."
The scandal could jeopardize his political career.
Skipping safety checks may jeopardize the entire project.
Her reckless actions jeopardized the team's chances of winning.
The new law might jeopardize small businesses.
Delaying the decision could jeopardize our opportunity.