militarize

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈmɪlɪtəraɪz/

KK: /ˈmɪlɪtəraɪz/

transitive verb

Definition

To prepare or organize something for military use or to make it suitable for warfare.

Example

The government decided to militarize the police force in response to the protests.

Tense Forms

Past: militarized

Past Participle: militarized

Conversation

Did you hear about the new policies they're trying to militarize the police force?

Yeah, it's pretty controversial and people are really divided on it.

I just don't think we should militarize our local communities like that.

I agree, it could lead to more tension and conflict instead of safety.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

arm

equip

train

Antonyms

demilitarize

disarm

decommission

Root Explanation

Militarize → It is formed from "militari" (from Latin, meaning to serve as a soldier) and the suffix "-ize" (meaning to make or to become). The word "militarize" means to make something military in character or to equip for military service.

Memory Tip

Think of 'serving as a soldier' ('militari') and 'making' something ('-ize') military in nature — that's why militarize means to make something military.

Visually Confused Words

remilitarize