sensitize

verb

sen·​si·​tize ˈsen(t)-sə-ˌtīz How to pronounce sensitize (audio)
sensitized; sensitizing

transitive verb

: to make sensitive or hypersensitive

intransitive verb

: to become sensitive
sensitizer noun

Examples of sensitize in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Experts think more exposure to pollen equals more chances to be sensitized, which equals more allergies. Brenda Goodman, CNN, 4 Apr. 2024 Either way, sensitizing yourself to what sparks joy—and what doesn’t—can be a valuable guidepost for you this month. Steph Koyfman, Condé Nast Traveler, 27 Feb. 2024 However, the experience of the pandemic should have sensitized all of us to the important needs of people whose health is compromised (like you), or who would simply like to avoid illness (everyone else) — especially during the winter months. Amy Dickinson, Washington Post, 15 Dec. 2023 Vivitrol may also sensitize opioid receptors because the system reacts to having less opioid activity when they are blocked. Maia Szalavitz, Scientific American, 13 Sep. 2023 In the future, these animals might be the source of the blood thinner heparin or even organs for transplant in those sensitized to the alpha-gal sugar. Peter G. Lurie and Beth Ellikidis, STAT, 17 Apr. 2023 Others, like Odisha, have supplemented legal efforts by setting up memorials to victims at police stations in a bid to sensitize people. Suhasini Raj, BostonGlobe.com, 13 May 2023 The intuitive Moon blends well with unique Uranus, sensitizing our hearts and bringing new perspectives. Tarot Astrologers, Chicago Tribune, 17 Apr. 2023 Was the last mouse being sensitized to pain by seeing others in pain? Frans B. M. De Waal, Scientific American, 1 Sep. 2015

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'sensitize.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

sensitive + -ize

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of sensitize was in 1851

Dictionary Entries Near sensitize

Cite this Entry

“Sensitize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sensitize. Accessed 19 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

sensitize

verb
sen·​si·​tize ˈsen(t)-sə-ˌtīz How to pronounce sensitize (audio)
sensitized; sensitizing
: to make or become sensitive

Medical Definition

sensitize

transitive verb
sen·​si·​tize
variants also British sensitise
sensitized also British sensitised; sensitizing also British sensitising
: to make sensitive or hypersensitive
the patient was sensitized to the drug

More from Merriam-Webster on sensitize

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