civilize

verb

Definition of civilizenext
as in to cultivate

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of civilize Classic imperialism sought to bind disparate places together under a vast administrative structure, animated by a civilizing mission. — Daniel Immerwahr, New Yorker, 16 Mar. 2026 Biking in Copenhagen is civilized—collective pressure ensures hand signals and other forms of etiquette are strictly adhered to. — Tamara Shopsin, Travel + Leisure, 16 Dec. 2025 These facts, in turn, were wielded as evidence for the need of a civilizing Christian influence. — David Wingrave, Harpers Magazine, 24 Oct. 2025 If Providence gave Americans the right to civilize a continent, why not the world? — Literary Hub, 15 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for civilize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for civilize
  1. cultivate
  2. urbanize
Verb
  • At the peak of its mania back in 2017, Rick and Morty cultivated a fanbase that, to put it kindly, was a bit much.
    — Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 24 July 2026
  • That starts with cultivating and attracting the right talent.
    — Craig Garthwaite, Fortune, 24 July 2026
Definition of cultivate
Verb
  • If appropriate action is not taken, economic growth in urbanizing cities will continue to happen at the cost of the less fortunate.
    — Chloe Wong, Hartford Courant, 16 Mar. 2026
  • Farmers in the modern world Farmers’ contribution to the Cold War shored up their cultural and political importance in a rapidly industrializing and urbanizing United States.
    — Peter Simons, The Conversation, 16 Jan. 2026
Definition of urbanize

Browse Nearby Words

civilizations
civilize
civilized
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Cite this Entry

“Civilize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/civilize. Accessed 27 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on civilize

Nglish: Translation of civilize for Spanish Speakers

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