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Definition of victimize

victimize

/ˈvɪk.tə.maɪz/
(UK: victimise)
vic · tim · ize
Past Simple:victimized
•
Past Participle:victimized
•
Present Participle:victimizing
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victimize Lexical Profile

victimize Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To single out a person or group for unjust, cruel, or harmful treatment.

Example

"The new regulations were designed to protect employees who felt they were being victimized for reporting workplace safety violations."

2

To cheat, swindle, or take unfair advantage of someone through deception.

Example

"Phone scammers often attempt to victimize elderly residents by posing as government tax officials."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for victimize

• Rhymes for victimize

• Nearby Words

victim
victimhood
victimization
victimize
victimizer
victimless
victor

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the early 19th century from the noun 'victim' (derived from Latin 'victima', meaning a sacrificial animal) combined with the verbal suffix '-ize'.

Cite this Entry

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