destigmatize

verb

de·​stig·​ma·​tize (ˌ)dē-ˈstig-mə-ˌtīz 

destigmatized; destigmatizing; destigmatizes

transitive verb

: to remove associations of shame or disgrace from

destigmatize mental illness

Examples of destigmatize in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Jennifer Lawrence is destigmatizing cosmetic surgery one interview at a time. — Hannah Malach, InStyle, 28 Oct. 2026

Students at Olathe Northwest High School created a PSA highlighting what calling 988 might look like to destigmatize reaching out for help. — Julianna Mejia, Kansas City Star, 13 Aug. 2026

And still, her honesty will help destigmatize this process for women who go through the same thing. — Emma Hinchliffe, Fortune, 10 Aug. 2026

This strategy aims to destigmatize cannabis, attracting adults seeking wellness, social alternatives to alcohol, or stress relief, who previously avoided high-potency options. — Peter Su, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1946, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for destigmatize

• actualize
• antagonize
• apologise
• apologize
• capitalize
• categorize
• characterize
• commercialize
• conceptualize
• contrariwise
• criminalize
• decentralize

Kids Definition

destigmatize

verb

de·​stig·​ma·​tize (ˌ)dē-ˈstig-mə-ˌtīz 

: to remove shame or disgrace from