Hellenize

[ hel-uh-nahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, Hel·len·ized, Hel·len·iz·ing.

1. to make Greek in character.

verb (used without object)

, Hel·len·ized, Hel·len·iz·ing.

1. to adopt Greek ideas or customs.

Hellenize

/ ˈhɛlɪˌnaɪz /

verb

1. to make or become like the ancient Greeks

Derived Forms

• ˈHellenˌizer, noun
• ˌHelleniˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• Hellen·i·zation noun
• Hellen·izer noun
• de-Hellen·ize verb deHellenized deHellenizing

Word History and Origins

Origin of Hellenize¹

First recorded in 1605–15, Hellenize is from the Greek word Hellēnízein to imitate the Greeks, speak Greek. See Hellene, -ize

Example Sentences

True, their tendency and probably their aim was to Hellenize Serbs and Bulgarians.

From Project Gutenberg

There was a return to Egyptian political ideas, rather than any attempt to Hellenize the government of the country.

From Project Gutenberg