privatize

especially British, pri·va·tise

[prahy-vuh-tahyz]

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.

privatize

/ ˈpraɪvɪˌtaɪz /

verb

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

Other Word Forms

• privatization noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of privatize¹

First recorded in 1945–50; private + -ize

Example Sentences

With more Airbnbs popping up and more land privatized, buying property to start a small business is only getting pricier.

From Los Angeles Times

Once that happened, the public would be softened up to accept a privatized retirement system.

From Los Angeles Times

For now, though, the focus remains on expanding and privatizing within the U.S., beyond L.A.,

From Los Angeles Times

“In a way, it is a backdoor for privatizing Social Security,” he said.

From Salon

In Argentina, far-right firebrand Milei won on a promise to privatize much of government.

From Los Angeles Times