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proselytize

[pros-uh-li-tahyz]
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verb (used with or without object), pros·e·lyt·ized, pros·e·lyt·iz·ing.
  1. to convert or attempt to convert as a proselyte; recruit.
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Also especially British, pros·e·lyt·ise.

Origin of proselytize

First recorded in 1670–80; proselyte + -ize
Related formspros·e·lyt·is·tic [pros-uh-li-tis-tik, -lahy-] /ˌprɒs ə lɪˈtɪs tɪk, -laɪ-/, adjectivepros·e·lyt·i·za·tion, nounpros·e·lyt·iz·er, noun
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

Related Words for proselytize

advocate, uphold, approve, defend, adopt, accept, persuade, embrace, convince, sway
British Dictionary definitions for proselytize

proselytize

proselytise

verb
  1. to convert (someone) from one religious faith to another
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Derived Formsproselytization or proselytisation, nounproselytizer or proselytiser, 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 proselytize

v.

1670s, "to make proselytes," from proselyte + -ize. Related: Proselytized; proselytizing.

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Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper