Search Dictionary
Definition of civilized

civilized

/ˈsɪv.ə.laɪzd/
(UK: civilised)
civ · i · lized
JUMP TO:

civilized Lexical Profile

civilized Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Having an advanced or humane stage of social, cultural, and political development.

Example

"A truly civilized society ensures that its most vulnerable citizens are cared for and protected by law."

2

Polite, courteous, and well-mannered in behavior or social interaction.

Example

"Despite their strong political disagreements, the two candidates maintained a remarkably civilized debate."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for civilized
Antonyms
View all antonyms for civilized

• Rhymes for civilized

• Nearby Words

civilization
civilizational
civilize
civilized
civilizer
civilly
civilness

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the early 17th century, derived as the past participial adjective of 'civilize', from Middle French 'civiliser' and ultimately from Latin 'civilis' (pertaining to citizens), from 'civis' (citizen).

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Civilized. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/civilized
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.