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Definition of tranquilize

tranquilize

/ˈtræŋkwəˌlaɪz/
(UK: tranquillise)
tran · qui · lize
Adverb:tranquilly
•
Adjective:tranquil
•
Past Simple:tranquilized
•
Past Participle:tranquilized
•
Present Participle:tranquilizing
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tranquilize Lexical Profile

tranquilize Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

American To administer a sedative or calming drug to a person or animal in order to reduce anxiety, agitation, or consciousness.

Example

"Wildlife biologists had to tranquilize the injured bear before they could safely examine its paw and fit a tracking collar."

2

American To make or become calm, peaceful, and free from emotional agitation or stress.

Example

"Listening to the gentle sound of rain against the window helped tranquilize her anxious mind after a demanding week."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for tranquilize
Antonyms
View all antonyms for tranquilize

Word Nuance & Usage

Spelled 'tranquilize' in American English, though 'tranquillize' (with a double 'l') is also seen and is the standard spelling in British English alongside 'tranquillise'.

• Nearby Words

tranquil
tranquility
tranquilization
tranquilize
tranquilizer
tranquilly
trans

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the early 17th century from the adjective 'tranquil' (derived from Latin 'tranquillus', meaning 'quiet, calm, or still') combined with the verbal suffix '-ize'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

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