politicize

American  

[puh-lit-uh-sahyz] / pəˈlɪt əˌsaɪz /

especially British, politicise

verb (used with object)

politicized, politicizing

1. to bring a political character or flavor to; make political.

   to politicize a private dispute.

---

verb (used without object)

politicized, politicizing

1. to engage in or discuss politics.

politicize British  

/ pəˈlɪtɪˌsaɪz /

verb

1. (tr) to render political in tone, interest, or awareness

2. (intr) to participate in political discussion or activity

---

Other Word Forms

• depoliticization noun
• depoliticize verb (used with object)
• nonpoliticization noun
• politicization noun

Etymology

Origin of politicize

First recorded in 1750–60; politic(al) + -ize

Explanation

To politicize something is to make it into a political issue. Candidates often politicize school performance, blaming low test scores on the policies of their opponents. When you politicize an issue, you bring it into the realm of politics, whether it belongs there or not. Politicians may rush to politicize an oil spill, for example, using it as an example of why the country should switch to alternative energy sources. A candidate running for mayor will be quick to politicize a private scandal by the current mayor, making it an issue in the campaign. The Greek root is politikos, "of citizens, or pertaining to the state."

Example Sentences

Paramount said it has been consistent that its goal is to not politicize the news and that it is investing in its goal of reaching the majority of Americans who define themselves as moderate.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 6, 2025

“We are not going to politicize anything today,” Ellison said at the event held at Paramount headquarters in Times Square in New York.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 7, 2025

He has denounced the court’s individual decisions, but has said he does not want to politicize the third branch of American democracy and risk undermining its authority forever.

From New York Times • Jul. 13, 2023

"It's hard to politicize things when you can't present the numbers in a vacuum."

From Salon • Jun. 17, 2023

“All parties should focus on fighting the epidemic itself, avoid any words or deeds that politicize the epidemic, strengthen solidarity and cooperation, and work together to defeat the epidemic,” the editorial said.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 18, 2023