civilization

noun

civ·​i·​li·​za·​tion ˌsi-və-lə-ˈzā-shən 

1

a

: a relatively high level of cultural and technological development

specifically : the stage of cultural development at which writing and the keeping of written records is attained

b

: the beliefs, customs, arts, etc. characteristic of a particular time or place : culture entry 1 sense 1a

the impact of European civilization on the lands they colonized

also, plural civilizations : a well-organized and developed society : culture entry 1 sense 1b

ancient/modern civilizations

a history of Mayan/Babylonian/Chinese civilization

2

: the process of becoming civilized

civilization is a slow process with many failures and setbacks

3

a

: refinement of thought, manners, or taste

exhibiting a high level of civilization

b

: a situation of urban comfort

Our camping trip was quite interesting, but it was great to get back to civilization.

civilizational

ˌsi-və-lə-ˈzā-sh(ə-)nəl 

adjective

Synonyms of civilization

• lifestyle
• culture
• society
• life

Examples of civilization in a Sentence

the impact of technical advancements on civilization

We are studying ancient Greek civilization.

a book about life on the planet after wars have destroyed civilization

Recent Examples on the Web

At the crossroads of civilizations, this island nation has long lured design buffs with its walled villages, fairy-tale architecture, and mix of Arab and European influences. — Sam Cochran, Architectural Digest, 19 Aug. 2026

The panther is the one to escort him to civilization, which proves easier said than done. — Maddie Rhodes, USA Today, 17 Aug. 2026

The same family structure was prevalent in ancient Egyptian civilization, with extended families living and working together along the River Nile. — Kaitlyn Gomez, Charlotte Observer, 17 Aug. 2026

The destruction of the ozone layer would allow hazardous ultraviolet radiation to rain down on the planet, adding to the series of climate cataclysms that would threaten civilization and most life on Earth. — Kevin Holden Platt, Forbes.com, 16 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

see civil

First Known Use

1760, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for civilization

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration

Kids Definition

civilization

noun

civ·​i·​li·​za·​tion ˌsiv-ə-lə-ˈzā-shən 

1

a

: a high level (as in art, science, and government) of social development

b

: the way of life of a people

ancient Egyptian civilization

2

: the series of changes involved in becoming civilized

3

: refinement of thought, manners, or taste

4

: a situation of urban comfort