criminalize
verb (used with object)
to make punishable as a crime.
criminalise
-
a variation of
criminalize.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
According to Human Rights Watch, "several penal code provisions, as well as the cybercrime law, criminalise speech deemed insulting to religion, the emir or foreign leaders".
From Barron's ● Aug. 25, 2026
Of Africa's 54 countries, only about 20 do not currently criminalise same-sex relations.
From Barron's ● Jul. 21, 2026
UK-based human rights group Amnesty International has said the UAE has "continued to criminalise the right to freedom of expression through multiple laws and to punish actual or perceived critics of the government".
From BBC ● Mar. 12, 2026
The sanctions will block any assets that the RDF or the four officers hold in the United States and criminalise any financial transactions with them.
From Barron's ● Mar. 2, 2026
It notes that many laws criminalise "routine, everyday actions".
From BBC ● Apr. 22, 2025
