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 of victimize

• 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

Anyone who believes they were victimized by Lynch or has information relevant to the investigation is asked to contact Prince George’s County detectives. — Angelique Brenes, PEOPLE, 18 Sep. 2026

The travelers are the ones victimized, and this comes at a significant cost in terms of public safety. — Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 18 Sep. 2026

Elbogen estimates that Ayala and Kim victimized dozens of young girls and women, both nationally and internationally. — Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 17 Sep. 2026

This leads investigators to believe Hunter might have victimized other women. — David Goodhue, Miami Herald, 16 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1813, 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