variants
also British galvanise
galvanizes; galvanized; galvanizing
1
a
: to cause (people) to become so excited or concerned about an issue, idea, etc., that they want to do something about it
an issue that galvanized the public (to take action)
b
: to cause (a force that is capable of causing change) to become active
The group is hoping to galvanize public opinion against the proposed law.
The Web site has galvanized support for the project.
2
technical
: to cover (steel or iron) with a layer of zinc to prevent it from rusting
a factory where steel is galvanized
Cite this Entry
“Galvanize.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/galvanize. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.
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