Definition

To change something from being owned or controlled by the government to being owned or controlled by private individuals or companies.

Example

The government decided to privatise the national railway system.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you heard about the government's plan to privatise public transport?

Yeah, I read something about that; it seems controversial.

I wonder how it will affect the prices if they privatise it.

It might lead to higher fares, but hopefully better services too.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Privatise** → It is formed from "privatus" (from Latin, meaning private or personal) and the suffix "-ise" (meaning to make or to become). The word "privatise" means to make something private or to transfer ownership from public to private.

Memory Tip

Think of making something 'private' ('privatus') — that's why 'privatise' means to make something private.

Visually Confused Words