weaponize

verb

weap·​on·​ize ˈwe-pə-ˌnīz How to pronounce weaponize (audio)
weaponized; weaponizing

transitive verb

: to adapt for use as a weapon of war
weaponization noun

Examples of weaponize in a Sentence

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.
But now, current and former officials say, there's a sense that the division is weaponizing the country's civil rights laws against populations it's supposed to be protecting. Ryan Lucas, NPR, 19 May 2025 Access to air conditioning can also be weaponized in prison. Ivy Scott, Kansas City Star, 14 May 2025 The defendant’s attorneys argue the administration is weaponizing immigration law to suppress dissent on U.S. campuses and deny the allegations of any closeness with the terrorist network. Kaelan Deese, The Washington Examiner, 14 May 2025 Once in place, the same algorithmic infrastructure that delivers economic advantage could be weaponized for political control. Ian Bremmer, Foreign Affairs, 13 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for weaponize

Word History

First Known Use

1957, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of weaponize was in 1957

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Cite this Entry

“Weaponize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/weaponize. Accessed 23 May. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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