Definition

To change something from being privately owned to being owned and controlled by the government.

Example

The government decided to nationalize the oil industry to ensure better management and distribution.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear they want to nationalize the railway system?

Really? That sounds like a big change!

Yeah, they say it will improve services for everyone.

I hope so! It could really make a difference.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nationalize → It is formed from "nation" (from Latin *natio*, meaning birth or people) and "-ize" (a suffix used to form verbs meaning to make or to become). The word "nationalize" means to make something into a national property or to bring it under the control of the nation.

Memory Tip

Think of 'nation' as a group of people and '-ize' meaning to make — so nationalize means to make something part of the nation.

Visually Confused Words