criminalize
verb (used with object)
to make punishable as a crime.
criminalizes
-
present tense formof criminalize (3rd person singular).present tense
Used to describe things happening now or regularly.
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.
Removing encampments criminalizes people who already are marginalized by society, when the focus should be on addressing addiction and mental health issues, he said.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 1, 2026
The state law criminalizes only harassment near a house of worship, with harassment defined as conduct that places a person in reasonable fear for his safety.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 13, 2026
He was convicted under a law that criminalizes the filing of retaliatory liens against the property of “any officer or employee of the United States.”
From Seattle Times ● Dec. 14, 2023
However, advocates for those experiencing homelessness push back on this argument, which they claim, in fact, criminalizes homelessness.
From Salon ● Aug. 7, 2023
Section 241 also criminalizes interference with constitutional and legal privileges.
From Slate ● Jul. 20, 2023
