Definitions for: Civilize


[v] raise from a barbaric to a civilized state; "The wild child found wandering in the forest was gradually civilized"
[v] train to be discriminative; as of taste or judgment; "Cultivate your musical taste"; "Train your tastebuds"; "She is well schooled in poetry"



Webster (1913) Definition: Civ"i*lize, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Civilized; p. pr. &
vb. n. Civilizing.] [Cf. F. civilizer, fr.L. civilis civil.
See Civil.]
1. To reclaim from a savage state; to instruct in the rules
and customs of civilization; to educate; to refine.

Yet blest that fate which did his arms dispose Her
land to civilize, as to subdue. --Dryden

2. To admit as suitable to a civilized state. [Obs. or R.]
``Civilizing adultery.'' --Milton.

Syn: To polish; refine; humanize.

Synonyms: civilise, civilise, cultivate, educate, school, train

See Also: alter, change, down, fine-tune, polish, refine, sophisticate

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