civilize
Translation
to civilize, to cultivate, to educate
Examples
They tried to civilize the local tribes.
They tried to civilize the local tribes.
The new laws helped to civilize the society.
The new laws helped to civilize the society.
Grammar Patterns
((sb./sth.)) to bring (sb./sth.) to a more advanced stage of social development They tried to civilize the local tribes.
Similar Words
Synonyms: cultivate, educate, enlighten; Antonyms: barbarize
Etymology
From Latin 'civilis' (relating to citizens), with the verb-forming suffix '-ize'.
Memory Tips
Think of a 'civil' city. To 'civilize' is to make a person or society more like an orderly, advanced city.