traumatize

UK: ˈtrɔːmətaɪz | US: ˈtraʊmətaɪz

Definition

  1. vt. to cause persistent psychological or emotional distress

  2. vt. to inflict physical injury or shock

  3. vt. (medical) to subject to trauma

Structure
trauma <wound, from Greek *trauma*>ize <verb suffix, from Greek *-izein*>
Etymology

The word "traumatize" originates from the Greek trauma (meaning "wound" or "injury"), combined with the verb-forming suffix -ize, which indicates causation or transformation. Historically, trauma referred to physical injuries, but its meaning expanded in the 19th century to include psychological distress, reflecting the growing understanding of mental health. The suffix -ize systematically converts nouns into verbs, creating a term that means "to inflict trauma."

Examples

  1. The accident traumatized her, leaving her with a fear of driving.

  2. Witnessing violence can traumatize children for life.

  3. The surgeon worked carefully to avoid traumatizing the delicate tissue.

  4. War veterans are often deeply traumatized by their experiences.

  5. The documentary aims to show how systemic injustice can traumatize entire communities.