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Definition of destigmatize

destigmatize

/ˌdiːˈstɪɡ.mə.taɪz/
(UK: destigmatise)
de · stig · ma · tize
Adjective:destigmatized
•
Past Simple:destigmatized
•
Past Participle:destigmatized
•
Present Participle:destigmatizing
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destigmatize Lexical Profile

destigmatize Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To remove associations of shame, disgrace, or societal disapproval from (a condition, behavior, or group of people).

Example

"Public health campaigns have worked tirelessly to destigmatize mental health counseling among young adults."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for destigmatize
Antonyms
View all antonyms for destigmatize

• Rhymes for destigmatize

• Nearby Words

destabilization
destabilize
destabilizer
destigmatize
destination
destine
destined

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the mid-20th century from the prefix 'de-' (indicating removal) and 'stigmatize', ultimately tracing back to the Ancient Greek 'stigma' ('brand' or 'mark made by a pointed instrument').

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Destigmatize. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/destigmatize
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