hypostatize

[ hahy-pos-tuh-tahyz, hi- ]

verb (used with object)

, hy·pos·ta·tized, hy·pos·ta·tiz·ing.

1. to treat or regard (a concept, idea, etc.) as a distinct substance or reality.

hypostatize

/ haɪˈpɒstəˌtaɪz /

verb

1. to regard or treat as real
2. to embody or personify

Derived Forms

• hyˌpostatiˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• hy·posta·ti·zation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of hypostatize¹

First recorded in 1820–30; from Greek hypostatós, hypóstatos “set under, (in Stoic philosophy) substantially existing” ( hypostatic ) + -ize

Example Sentences

We are aware that "the tendency of modern thought" is to hypostatize force and intelligence, and conceive them as entities.

From Project Gutenberg

If we apply it also to qualities of things, we hypostatize the abstract quality.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• demonstrate
• epitomize
• exemplify
• exhibit
• express
• illustrate
• incorporate
• manifest
• mirror
• personify
• realize
• stand for
• symbolize
• typify