subtilize

[ suht-l-ahyz, suhb-tuh-lahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, sub·til·ized, sub·til·iz·ing.

1. to elevate in character; sublimate.
2. to make (the mind, senses, etc.) keen or discerning; sharpen.
3. to introduce subtleties into or argue subtly about.
4. to make thin, rare, or more fluid or volatile; refine.

verb (used without object)

, sub·til·ized, sub·til·iz·ing.

1. to make subtle distinctions or to argue subtly.

subtilize

/ ˈsʌtɪˌlaɪz /

verb

1. tr to bring to a purer state; refine
2. to debate subtly
3. tr to make (the mind, etc) keener

Derived Forms

• ˌsubtiliˈzation, noun
• ˈsubtilˌizer, noun

Other Words From

• subtil·i·zation noun
• subtil·izer noun
• super·subtil·ized adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of subtilize¹

1585–95; < Medieval Latin subtīlizāre, equivalent to subtīl ( is ) subtle + -izāre -ize

Example Sentences

Its Office is to Subtilize the Blood by cleansing and refining it.

From Project Gutenberg