victimize

verb

vic·​tim·​ize ˈvik-tə-ˌmīz 

victimized; victimizing

transitive verb

1

: to make a victim of

2

: to subject to deception or fraud : cheat

victimization

ˌvik-tə-mə-ˈzā-shən 

noun

victimizer

ˈvik-tə-ˌmī-zər 

noun

Synonyms

• cheat
• pluck
• squeeze
• sting
• hustle
• deceive
• screw
• defraud
• beat
• stick
• do

Examples of victimize in a Sentence

They were victimized because of their religion.

victimized by a confidence man with a slick story

Recent Examples on the Web

Fifteen people and a dog were victimized in the attack. —Shelly Bradbury, Denver Post, 25 June 2025

Those who may be victimized should call 911 immediately. —Rick Hurd, Mercury News, 23 June 2025

Other high-ranking officials in the French government are not as enthusiastic, expressing fears that the decision will open the door for abuse that victimizes the weakest in society. —Timothy Nerozzi, The Washington Examiner, 31 May 2025

He was victimized by smart base-running when Merrill slowing to make sure he was not hit by Bogaerts’ batted ball to second base distracted Simon just enough for the ball to slip past his glove for the second run in the third inning. —Jeff Sanders, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1830, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

victimize

verb

vic·​tim·​ize ˈvik-tə-ˌmīz 

victimized; victimizing

: to make a victim of especially by cheating