proselytize
UK: ˈprɒs.əl.ɪ.taɪz | US: ˈprɑː.səl.ə.taɪz
vt. to attempt to convert someone to a religion, belief, or cause
vi. to recruit or persuade others to join a movement or ideology
proselytize = proselyte<convert> + ize<verb suffix>
- proselyte (from Greek prosēlytos <one who has come to a place/convert>)
- ize (verb-forming suffix indicating action or process, from Greek -izein)
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Greek prosēlytos, meaning "a stranger who has come to settle" or "convert," originally used in Jewish contexts for non-Jews adopting Judaism. The suffix -ize transforms it into a verb, reflecting the active process of conversion. Over time, "proselytize" expanded beyond religious contexts to include any fervent recruitment or persuasion.
Missionaries often proselytize in remote regions.
She avoided coworkers who tried to proselytize about their political views.
The cult aggressively proselytized vulnerable individuals.
Some religions discourage proselytizing to maintain cultural harmony.
His speeches aimed not just to inform but to proselytize.