Definition

To make someone or something cruel, harsh, or unfeeling, often through violent or abusive treatment.

Example

The dictator's regime aimed to brutalize the population into submission.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about that story where they tried to brutalize the animals in the circus?

Yeah, it's so upsetting how some people can be so cruel.

I just don't understand how anyone could brutalize innocent creatures like that.

I know, it's heartbreaking. We need to speak out against such things.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Brutalize → It is formed from "brut" (from Latin "brutus", meaning heavy or dull) and "-alize" (a suffix used to form verbs meaning to make or to become). The word "brutalize" means to make something brutal or to treat someone in a cruel or savage manner.

Memory Tip

Think of 'brut' meaning heavy or dull, which helps you remember that to 'brutalize' means to make something cruel or savage.

Visually Confused Words