victimize

verb

vic·​tim·​ize ˈvik-tə-ˌmīz How to pronounce victimize (audio)
victimized; victimizing
Synonyms of victimizenext

transitive verb

1
: to make a victim of
2
: to subject to deception or fraud : cheat
victimization noun
victimizer noun

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The days of Aaron Judge being victimized by incorrect strike calls below the zone are over. Gary Phillips, Hartford Courant, 29 Mar. 2026 Attorneys for the survivors say at least 60 women who were victimized by Epstein during that period. Chloe Atkins, NBC news, 28 Mar. 2026 Police say 38 boys were allegedly victimized between spring and fall 2025. Doug Myers, CBS News, 27 Mar. 2026 Nobody has been victimized on such calls more over the last few years, but the Yankees believe the implementation of ABS can give the 6-7 Judge yet another edge at the plate this season. Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 27 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for victimize

Word History

First Known Use

1813, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of victimize was in 1813

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Victimize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/victimize. Accessed 1 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

victimize

verb
vic·​tim·​ize ˈvik-tə-ˌmīz How to pronounce victimize (audio)
victimized; victimizing
: to make a victim of especially by cheating

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