proselytize

[pros-uh-li-tahyz]

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verb (used with or without object), pros·e·lyt·ized, pros·e·lyt·iz·ing.

to convert or attempt to convert as a proselyte; recruit.

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. 2019

Related Words for proselytize

advocate, uphold, approve, defend, adopt, accept, persuade, embrace, convince, sway

British Dictionary definitions for proselytize

proselytize

proselytise

verb

to convert (someone) from one religious faith to another

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

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