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Definition of pathologize

pathologize

/pəˈθɑːləˌdʒaɪz/
(UK: pathologise)
pa · thol · o · gize
Adverb:pathologically
•
Adjective:pathological
•
Past Simple:pathologized
•
Past Participle:pathologized
•
Present Participle:pathologizing
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pathologize Lexical Profile

pathologize Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To regard or treat a person, behavior, or psychological state as psychologically abnormal, unhealthy, or symptomatic of a disease.

Example

"Critics argue that modern psychiatry tends to pathologize ordinary grief and sadness."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for pathologize

Word Nuance & Usage

Often used critically in psychology and sociology to suggest that normal human variations, emotions, or behaviors are being unfairly labeled as medical disorders.

• Rhymes for pathologize

• Nearby Words

pathological
pathologically
pathologist
pathologize
pathology
pathway
patia

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the early 20th century from 'pathology' (from Ancient Greek 'pathos', meaning suffering or disease, and '-logia', meaning study) combined with the verbal suffix '-ize'.

Cite this Entry

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