politicize

[ puh-lit-uh-sahyz ]

/ pəˈlɪt əˌsaɪz /

verb (used with object), po·lit·i·cized, po·lit·i·ciz·ing.

to bring a political character or flavor to; make political: to politicize a private dispute.

verb (used without object), po·lit·i·cized, po·lit·i·ciz·ing.

to engage in or discuss politics.

Nearby words

politically correct, politically incorrect, politicaster, politician, politicization, politicize, politick, politicking, politico, politico-, politics

Also especially British, po·lit·i·cise.

Origin of politicize

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

Related formspo·lit·i·ci·za·tion, nounde·po·lit·i·ci·za·tion, nounde·po·lit·i·cize, verb (used with object), de·po·lit·i·cized, de·po·lit·i·ciz·ing.non·po·lit·i·ci·za·tion, noun

Can be confusedpoliticize politick

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Examples from the Web for politicize

This is, of course, met by the pro-gun forces urging people not to politicize a tragedy.
It’s Time to Think Big or Shut Up on Gun Control|Dean Obeidallah|June 8, 2014|DAILY BEAST
The president himself has also accused Republicans of trying to politicize a national tragedy.
CIA Contractor Testimony Could Undermine Obama on Benghazi|Eli Lake|November 6, 2013|DAILY BEAST
“Mitch made it very clear to me from the beginning that he does not politicize issues of national security,” Benton wrote.
Opponents in Kentucky Make Mitch McConnell Useless in the Senate|Patricia Murphy|September 13, 2013|DAILY BEAST
And when the temptation to politicize or otherwise exploit the situation becomes irresistible, at least try to be subtle.
Which Politician Best Navigated Hurricane Sandy’s Surge?|Michelle Cottle|October 31, 2012|DAILY BEAST

Democrats have countered that Republicans and Mitt Romney have attempted to politicize a national tragedy.
Benghazi Suspect Held in Tunisia|Eli Lake|October 23, 2012|DAILY BEAST

British Dictionary definitions for politicize

politicize

politicise

/ (pəˈlɪtɪˌsaɪz) /

verb

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

(intr) to participate in political discussion or activity

Derived Formspoliticization or politicisation, noun

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Word Origin and History for politicize

politicize

1758, "take up politics," from politics + -ize. Meaning "to render political" is from 1846. Related: Politicized; politicizing. Earlier was politize (late 16c.), but this was rare.