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
  • Leaders must cultivate environments that foster these paths, offering meaningful ownership, opportunities for judgment, learning, and mentorship.
    — Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026
  • Ganni’s success also fueled growing interest in Copenhagen’s fashion scene, helping pave the way for fellow Danish labels like Saks Potts, Stine Goya, Rotate, and Baum und Pferdgarten to cultivate devoted international followings.
    — Kelsey Stewart, InStyle, 7 Aug. 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, Fortune, 14 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 8 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on civilize

Nglish: Translation of civilize for Spanish Speakers

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