Legalize

/ˈliːɡəlaɪz/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To make something lawful or to permit it by law.

The government plans to legalize the use of recreational marijuana.

To sanction or give formal approval to an action or practice.

They are pushing to legalize online gambling in the state.

To convert into law or to declare something to be in accordance with law.

Activists are working to legalize same-sex marriage in more states.

To remove legal prohibitions against something.

The city council voted to legalize sidewalk vending.

From the word 'legal' plus the suffix '-ize' implying to make or render.

legalize it

A phrase commonly used to advocate for the legalization of marijuana.

legalize same-sex marriage

Refers to the movement to make same-sex marriage recognized by law.

legalize gambling

Refers to the process of making wagering activities lawful.

legislation

The act of making or enacting laws.

legal

Relating to the law.

legitimate

Conforming to established rules, standards, or principles.

To make something acceptable or mainstream.

They think we should legalize it to normalize the culture.

Often used in the context of marijuana usage.

The movement to legalize has gained momentum among the youth.