Definition of vulgarizenext
as in to popularize
to use so much as to make less appealing the composer's masterpiece has been hopelessly vulgarized by its use in countless TV commercials

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 vulgarize His versions were full-blooded, with lush strings and reasonably large orchestras — and, purists alleged — vulgarizing distortions. BostonGlobe.com, 28 Oct. 2019
Recent Examples of Synonyms for vulgarize
Verb
  • The timeless, effortlessly cool silhouette has been hot for decades; Jennifer Aniston helped popularize it in the ‘90s and, yes, is still wearing it today.
    Kaelin Dodge, InStyle, 3 Aug. 2026
  • That idea is fairly commonplace now—but that’s because Perel helped popularize it.
    Faith Hill, The Atlantic, 24 July 2026
Verb
  • Sleep apnea is still stereotyped as affecting older, overweight men, which means women’s more subtle symptoms are often not thoroughly investigated by doctors.
    Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 4 Aug. 2026
  • Along with the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media, the foundation also partners with schools and community institutions to educate the challenging effects of stereotyping, unconscious bias, and representation imbalance of gender, ethnicity, sexuality, and persons with disabilities.
    Carole Horst, Variety, 21 June 2026
Verb
  • While the analogy may be slightly overused, the challenge is that oil still needs to be refined into a useful end product.
    Guy Courtin, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026
  • Common mistakes like skipping morning water, overusing caffeine, or ignoring electrolytes can impact hydration.
    Sarah Jividen, Verywell Health, 7 July 2026
Verb
  • While some use leverage strategically, many are overexposed, risking severe losses when markets inevitably correct, proving even good ideas can fail without surviving volatility.
    Andrew Graham, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2026
  • However, the sky is overexposed and completely devoid of blue.
    Kimberly Gedeon, PC Magazine, 3 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • Outdoor brands like Halfdays, FP Movement, Patagonia, and Athleta have quite frankly never looked better, with cheerful colorways, unique designs, and trail-ready pieces all proving that function doesn’t have to mean boring.
    Jessica Chapel, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Aug. 2026
  • That said, woodpeckers are attracted to other types of wood-boring insects, and woodpecker activity doesn’t always indicate that borers are present.
    Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Vulgarize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/vulgarize. Accessed 15 Aug. 2026.

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