civilize Definition
- 1to bring a place or people to an advanced stage of social development
- 2to educate someone in the customs and culture of a society
Using civilize: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "civilize" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The Romans were known for their efforts to civilize the barbarian tribes.
Example
The missionaries sought to civilize the indigenous people by teaching them Western customs and values.
Example
Education is a key tool to civilize society and promote progress.
civilize Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with civilize
a society that has reached a high level of social, cultural, and technological development
Example
The goal of many nations is to create a civilized society that promotes equality, justice, and prosperity.
the idea that it is the duty of Western nations to spread their civilization and culture to other parts of the world
Example
The concept of the civilizing mission was used to justify colonialism and imperialism in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Example
In order to maintain a peaceful and harmonious society, we must all strive to exhibit civilized behavior in our interactions with others.
Origins of civilize
from French 'civiliser', from Latin 'civilis', meaning 'civil'
Summary: civilize in Brief
'Civilize' [ˈsɪvəlaɪz] means to advance a place or people socially and culturally. It can also refer to educating someone in the customs and culture of a society. Examples include the Romans' efforts to civilize barbarian tribes and the use of education as a tool to promote progress. Phrases like 'civilized society' and 'civilizing mission' reflect the idea of spreading Western civilization and culture. Synonyms include 'cultivate' and 'enlighten,' while informal equivalents are 'tame' and 'domesticate.'
