tranquilize

especially British, tran·quil·lise
Or tran·quil·lize

[trang-kwuh-lahyz]

verb (used with or without object)

tranquilized, tranquilizing 

1. to make or become tranquil.

Other Word Forms

• tranquilization noun
• untranquilize verb (used with object)

Word History and Origins

Origin of tranquilize¹

First recorded in 1615–25; tranquil + -ize

Example Sentences

The bear was tranquilized and later shot and killed last month after wildlife personnel confirmed they had the right bear — a call based on a distinctive patch of fur on her back.

From Los Angeles Times

When a fish and game warden tried to tranquilize the big cat, the officer missed.

From Los Angeles Times

Zadeh said it was shortly before 1 p.m. when deputies were called to assist after a fish and game warden tried to tranquilize the big cat.

From Los Angeles Times

The animal was tranquilized again, then moved to a bear trap that had been placed on a trailer, the news outlet reported.

From Seattle Times

A cocktail of drugs that are commonly used to tranquilize wildlife was found in one of the 49-year-old woman’s bones but there was no indication of trauma, the report said.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• sedate