nationalize
UK: ˈnæʃənəlaɪz | US: ˈnæʃənəlaɪz
vt. to transfer (a private industry or asset) into public ownership
vt. to make something national in character or scope
vt. to naturalize (a foreigner) (archaic)
The word "nationalize" combines "nation" (from Latin natio, meaning "birth, tribe, or people") with the adjective-forming suffix "-al" (from Latin -alis) and the verb-forming suffix "-ize" (from Greek -izein). The term emerged in the early 19th century, reflecting the political and economic trend of transferring private assets to state control. The morphemes logically progress from "nation" (a collective people) to "national" (pertaining to a nation) and finally to "nationalize" (the act of making something part of the nation).
The government decided to nationalize the railway system to ensure uniform service.
Critics argue that nationalizing industries can reduce competition.
The new policy aims to nationalize healthcare access for all citizens.
Historically, some countries nationalized foreign-owned oil companies.
The movement sought to nationalize cultural landmarks as symbols of unity.