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.
Real friends don’t weaponize ‘kindness’ to avoid responsibility. Michael Nied, People.com, 19 July 2025 The complaint argues that releasing such raw and intimate documentation would weaponize Arizona’s Public Records Law against grieving families, rather than serve its intended purpose of promoting government transparency. Sarah Rumpf-Whitten, FOXNews.com, 16 July 2025 By investing in domestic rare-earth production and recycling, Apple is proactively insulating itself from geopolitical shocks, particularly those stemming from China’s dominance in rare earths and its willingness to weaponize export controls. Christiaan Hetzner, Fortune, 15 July 2025 But that’s exactly what happened, as Musk posts and posts and posts on X. Musk is weaponizing Epstein – and Trump is feigning flabbergastaiton – because both know the president is vulnerable here now that his most fervent supporters and his most aggrieved detractors just don’t believe him. Chris Brennan, USA Today, 11 July 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Weaponize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/weaponize. Accessed 24 Jul. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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