Definition

To make someone or something seem evil or devilish.

Example

The media often diabolize public figures to create sensational stories.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how they diabolize the character in that movie?

Yeah, it was crazy how they made him seem so evil!

I know, right? It's like they wanted us to hate him completely.

Exactly! It was a little over the top, but it made the plot interesting.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Diabolize → It is formed from "diabolus" (from Greek "diabolos", meaning slanderer or accuser) and the suffix "-ize" (meaning to make or to become). The word "diabolize" means to make someone or something into a devil or to portray them as evil.

Memory Tip

Think of the Greek word for slanderer ('diabolos') to remember that to diabolize means to portray someone as evil or devilish.

Visually Confused Words