proselytize

especially British, pros·e·lyt·ise

[pros-uh-li-tahyz]

verb (used with or without object)

proselytized, proselytizing 

1. to convert or attempt to convert as a proselyte; recruit to a religion or other belief system.

proselytize

/ ˈprɒsɪlɪˌtaɪz /

verb

1. to convert (someone) from one religious faith to another

Other Word Forms

• proselytistic adjective
• proselytization noun
• proselytizer noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of proselytize¹

First recorded in 1670–80; proselyte + -ize

Example Sentences

That fact is a primary reason why their numbers keep declining despite decades of aggressive proselytizing.

From Salon

While I don’t mean to proselytize to those who would rather stay home than go to the movie theater — alright, I do just a little bit — there is nothing like the theatrical experience.

From Salon

Aster is careful not to pass judgment or overtly proselytize, favoring a mode of storytelling that gets as close to the truth as possible while leading with objectivity.

From Salon

His health proselytizing was both public and private.

From Los Angeles Times

“I don’t go out proselytizing, but I am not going to deny my faith; I’m not going to deny Jesus Christ,” Grammer says.

From Los Angeles Times