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
often used figuratively
… the ways people weaponize fear in order to hide their own.Justin Chang
weaponization noun

Examples of weaponize in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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But there are also concerns Pulte, who used his housing finance perch to criminally refer Trump political opponents to the Justice Department over allegations of mortgage fraud, may similarly weaponize intelligence. Naomi Lim, The Washington Examiner, 3 June 2026 Washington’s willingness to weaponize its technological dominance is pushing world powers to advance their efforts toward digital independence. J.d. Capelouto, semafor.com, 3 June 2026 There are no hearts to lose, no streaks weaponized against you, and no ads interrupting your flow. Stackcommerce Team, PC Magazine, 3 June 2026 Sherrill cited public safety concerns after officials reported protesters had set tires and chairs on fire, thrown makeshift projectiles and weaponized police shields. Nicole Acevedo, NBC news, 2 June 2026 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 9 Jun. 2026.

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