victimize
UK: ˈvɪktɪmaɪz | US: ˈvɪktəˌmaɪz
vt. to single someone out for cruel or unjust treatment
vt. to make someone a victim of deception or exploitation
The word "victimize" combines "victim," derived from Latin victima (referring to a sacrificial animal or later an oppressed person), with the verb-forming suffix "-ize" (from Greek -izein). Originally tied to religious sacrifice, "victim" evolved to denote anyone suffering harm. The suffix "-ize" systematically converts nouns into verbs, creating "victimize" (early 19th century) to describe the act of causing someone to become a victim. The logic reflects a shift from passive suffering ("victim") to active oppression ("victimize").
Bullies often target and victimize weaker classmates.
Scammers victimize elderly people by stealing their savings.
The regime’s propaganda was designed to victimize political dissenters.
She refused to let her abuser continue to victimize her.
New laws aim to protect consumers from being victimized by fraud.