privatize

American  

[prahy-vuh-tahyz] / ˈpraɪ vəˌtaɪz /

especially British, privatise

verb (used with object)

privatized, privatizing

1. to transfer from public or government control or ownership to private enterprise.

   a campaign promise to privatize some of the public lands.

2. to make exclusive; delimit or appropriate.

   special-interest groups attempting to privatize social issues.

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privatize British  

/ ˈpraɪvɪˌtaɪz /

verb

1. (tr) to transfer (the production of goods or services) from the public sector of an economy into private ownership and operation

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Other Word Forms

• privatization noun

Etymology

Origin of privatize

First recorded in 1945–50; private + -ize

Example Sentences

We then considered whether the Boston-area airports would install heated runways if they were privatized and made the decision based on whether heated runways could increase profits.

From The Wall Street Journal

The movement envisions PdVSA as an energy regulator refereeing a privatized oil sector.

From The Wall Street Journal

Still, many experts say there is a need for a more unified approach to the nation’s patchwork, privatized emergency alert system.

From Los Angeles Times

Although some residents had advocated for privatizing the road for resident access only, the Snake does not meet state requirements to do so.

From Los Angeles Times

Included in Russia’s newly privatized health care system were private clinics for the ultra-wealthy offering hotel-like amenities, including private rooms, tea and soft background music.

From Salon