subtilize
[ suht-l-ahyz, suhb-tuh-lahyz ]
verb (used with object),sub·til·ized, sub·til·iz·ing.
to elevate in character; sublimate.
to make (the mind, senses, etc.) keen or discerning; sharpen.
to introduce subtleties into or argue subtly about.
to make thin, rare, or more fluid or volatile; refine.
verb (used without object),sub·til·ized, sub·til·iz·ing.
to make subtle distinctions or to argue subtly.
Origin of subtilize
1- Also especially British, sub·til·ise .
Other words from subtilize
- sub·til·i·za·tion, noun
- sub·til·iz·er, noun
- su·per·sub·til·ized, adjective
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024
British Dictionary definitions for subtilize
subtilize
subtilise
/ (ˈsʌtɪˌlaɪz) /
verb
(tr) to bring to a purer state; refine
to debate subtly
(tr) to make (the mind, etc) keener
Derived forms of subtilize
- subtilization or subtilisation, noun
- subtilizer or subtiliser, 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
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