Meaning & Definition of word "Civilize"

Civilize

/ˈsɪv.ɪ.laɪz/

1. to bring a place or group of people to a stage of social, cultural, and moral development considered to be more advanced.
- Example: The explorers believed they were destined to civilize the indigenous tribes they encountered.
2. to teach someone to behave in a way that is acceptable in society.
- Example: She took it upon herself to civilize her mischievous younger brother.
3. to make a community or society more cultured, refined, or sophisticated.
- Example: The new education policies aimed to civilize the younger generation through the arts and sciences.
4. to improve or refine a person's manners or behavior.
- Example: His parents hoped that attending the prestigious school would help to civilize him.
5. to remove elements of barbarism or savagery from a society.
- Example: The government's campaign sought to civilize the restless population through better governance.

From Latin 'civilis', meaning 'of a citizen', from 'civis', meaning 'citizen'.

civilized world:

The part of the world that is considered developed and orderly.

civilize oneself:

To improve one's manners or behaviors to fit societal norms.

to civilize the masses:

To uplift or educate a large group of people to meet cultural standards.

civilization:

The stage of human social development and organization that is considered most advanced.

civil:

Relating to citizens or the general public; courteous and polite.

civilian:

A person not in the armed services or the police force.

Meaning: To improve or upgrade one's behavior.

Example Sentence: After attending the workshop, Dave really learned to civilize.

Meaning: To make something more acceptable in social settings.

Example Sentence: They need to civilize that party if they want it to be taken seriously.