civilize
verb (used with object)
to bring out of a savage, uneducated, or rude state; make civil; elevate in social and private life; enlighten; refine.
have civilized
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present perfectof civilize.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
“When it first began it was the only place in France where you could have civilized conversation and hear immortal wisdom from some of the best minds of the generation,” said Mr. Browner.
From New York Times ● Aug. 28, 2021
“This was another example of trying to woo celebs and show that you can have civilized conversations without the hate even if you’re a high-profile person,” one source said.
From Washington Times ● Aug. 12, 2016
How successful have civilized peoples been in achieving their objectives?
From Civilization and Beyond Learning from History by Scott Nearing
Eventually you'll have civilized communities that won't be either 'grubber' or 'junkman.'
From Deathworld by H. R. van Dongen
At the time the war began Carthage was already corrupt to the core, and although she might have enslaved many nations she would never have civilized them.
From The Young Carthaginian A Story of The Times of Hannibal by G. A. (George Alfred) Henty
