liberalize

[ lib-er-uh-lahyz, lib-ruh- ]

verb (used with or without object)

, lib·er·al·ized, lib·er·al·iz·ing.

1. to make or become liberal.

liberalize

/ ˈlɪbərəˌlaɪz; ˈlɪbrə- /

verb

1. to make or become liberal

Derived Forms

• ˌliberaliˈzation, noun
• ˈliberalˌizer, noun

Other Words From

• lib·er·al·i·za·tion [lib-er-, uh, -lahy-, zey, -sh, uh, n, lib-r, uh, -], noun
• lib·er·al·iz·er noun
• o·ver·lib·er·al·ize verb overliberalized overliberalizing
• un·lib·er·al·ized· adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of liberalize¹

First recorded in 1765–75; liberal + -ize

Example Sentences

He spoke of liberalizing travel and reestablishing diplomatic relations between the two countries.

From Time

Whatever he says publicly to reassure the party’s old guard that his watchword remains “continuity,” Diaz-Canel’s actions suggest he understands the need to gradually liberalize Cuba’s economy.

From Time

Economic integration leads to heightened competition and structural changes in economies that participate in liberalized free trade areas, resulting in job losses in industries unable to compete.

From Quartz

Los Angeles has refused to respond to its massive housing shortage by liberalizing its zoning laws.

From Vox

Globally, though, the divorce rate has more than doubled in the last four decades, as many countries liberalize their divorce laws and women gain more economic opportunity.

From Ozy

Sure, it wouldn't be easy; even Bassam suffers some setbacks on his quest to single-handedly liberalize Abbudin.

From The Daily Beast

Thinking to liberalize it, he commenced to draw up a series of reforms or projects, which were ingenious, to say the least.

From Project Gutenberg

"Tell me about this primary," said Peter, concluding that abstract political philosophy was not the way to liberalize Dennis.

From Project Gutenberg

The provinces were encouraged to liberalize their franchise regulations, but not to abandon the prevailing electoral system.

From Project Gutenberg

Perhaps, also, it may sometimes have a contrary effect, and elevate and liberalize the feelings.

From Project Gutenberg

One is the desire to liberalize Christianity and make it more inclusive.

From Project Gutenberg