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Definition of militarize

militarize

/ˈmɪl.ə.tə.ɹaɪz/
(UK: militarise)
mil · i · ta · rize
Adjective:militarized
•
Past Simple:militarized
•
Past Participle:militarized
•
Present Participle:militarizing
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militarize Lexical Profile

militarize Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To equip or supply (a place, organization, or force) with soldiers, military hardware, and defensive fortifications.

Example

"International treaties strictly forbid any nation from attempting to militarize the Antarctic continent."

2

To give a military character, structure, or discipline to (a civilian institution, police force, or society).

Example

"Critics argued that providing surplus armored vehicles to local towns would unnecessarily militarize community policing."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for militarize
Antonyms
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• Rhymes for militarize

• Nearby Words

militarist
militaristic
militarization
militarize
military
militia
militiaman

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from French militariser in the early 19th century, formed from militaire ('military'), which ultimately traces back to Latin miles ('soldier').

Cite this Entry

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