weaponize
weaponize Lexical Profile
weaponize Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To adapt or exploit (a non-military concept, system, piece of information, or institution) so that it can be used to attack, harm, or gain an unfair advantage over others.
"Critics argued that the campaign sought to weaponize social media algorithms to spread disinformation."
To adapt or modify (a substance, pathogen, vehicle, or technology) for use as a military weapon, or to equip a system with weapons.
"International treaties strictly prohibit nations from attempting to weaponize biological agents or space satellites."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in the mid-20th century within military and aerospace contexts by combining the noun 'weapon' (from Old English 'wǣpen') with the verbal suffix '-ize'. By the early 21st century, it expanded widely into political and social discourse to describe turning neutral information or institutions into tools of attack.