Definition

To become accustomed to a new environment or situation, often referring to the process of adapting to a different culture or country.

Example

After living in the country for several years, she decided to naturalize and become a citizen.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard it can take a while for someone to naturalize in a new country.

Yeah, I can imagine! It must be tough to adapt to everything.

Exactly! Some people say it takes years to truly naturalize and feel at home.

That makes sense, especially with all the cultural differences.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To make a foreign person or thing a part of a new environment or culture, often by granting citizenship or adapting it to local conditions.

Example

The government decided to naturalize the refugees, allowing them to become citizens of the country.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the program that helps naturalize immigrants in our city?

Yeah, I read that it makes the process a lot easier for them.

It's cool how they help people feel more at home and part of the community.

Root Explanation

Naturalize → It is formed from "natural" (from Latin "naturalis", meaning of nature) and "-ize" (a suffix meaning to make or to become). The word "naturalize" means to make something natural or to adapt to a natural state.

Memory Tip

Think of making something 'of nature' ('natural') — the '-ize' means to make it so. This helps you remember that 'naturalize' means to make something natural.

Visually Confused Words