galvanize

especially British, gal·va·nise

[gal-vuh-nahyz]

verb (used with object)

galvanized, galvanizing 

1. to stimulate by or as if by a galvanic current.

2. Medicine/Medical.,  to stimulate or treat (muscles or nerves) with induced direct current (faradize ).

3. to startle into sudden activity; stimulate.

   Synonyms: animate, spur, fire, electrify, stir, rouse

4. to coat (metal, especially iron or steel) with zinc.

galvanize

/ ˈɡælvəˌnaɪz /

verb

1. to stimulate to action; excite; startle

2. to cover (iron, steel, etc) with a protective zinc coating by dipping into molten zinc or by electrodeposition

3. to stimulate by application of an electric current

noun

1. galvanized iron, usually in the form of corrugated sheets as used in roofing

Other Word Forms

• galvanization noun
• galvanizer noun
• nongalvanized adjective
• pregalvanize verb (used with object)
• regalvanization noun
• regalvanize verb (used with object)
• ungalvanized adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of galvanize¹

First recorded in 1795–1805; from French galvaniser, named after Luigi Galvani; -ize

Example Sentences

“This is going to galvanize us,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

It’s one of many moments over the last decade that have galvanized conservative factions around calls to boycott the Super Bowl, or at least publicly bash the event.

From Los Angeles Times

This time he mixes star heroism with you-are-there spectacle and the results can be galvanizing if awkwardly framed.

From Los Angeles Times

He galvanized a generation of young Americans to turn toward the GOP, with even critics acknowledging his organizing skills and impact.

From Los Angeles Times

He says the new map is an “attack on the community,” for Republican and Democratic workers alike, who would find a cold shoulder in a galvanized conservative government.

From Salon

Related Words

• arouse 
• astonish 
• energize 
• excite 
• frighten 
• invigorate 
• jolt 
• motivate 
• provoke 
• shock 
• spur 
• startle 
• stir 
• stun