sexualize

verb

sex·​u·​al·​ize ˈsek-sh(ə-)wə-ˌlīz 

ˈsek-shə-ˌlīz

sexualized; sexualizing

transitive verb

: to make sexual : endow with a sexual character or cast

Examples of sexualize in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Quiet on Set tackles the kaleidoscopic complexities of kids TV, where what was celebrated as sweet and harmless comedy in a bygone era today to new eyes looks as if young actors were being sexualized on set, and deliberately so. —Etan Vlessing, The Hollywood Reporter, 13 Aug. 2024

To me, even in a violent act like street harassment, there was something humorous about a grown man sexualizing such a mundane moment. —Kat Lazo, refinery29.com, 8 Feb. 2024

But the costume has also attracted criticism for sexualizing Fisher and her character. —Oscar Holland, CNN, 30 July 2024

Instead of sexualizing Brazilian bodies, the film takes its subjects into an existential adventure about culture and belonging. —Nicole Froio, refinery29.com, 3 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1839, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

sexualize

transitive verb

sex·​u·​al·​ize

variants also British sexualise

ˈseksh-(ə-)wə-ˌlīz, ˈsek-shə-ˌlīz 

sexualized also British sexualised; sexualizing also British sexualising

: to make sexual : endow with a sexual character or quality

sexualization noun

also British sexualisation

ˌseksh-(ə-)wə-lə-ˈzā-shən