sexualize

verb

sex·​u·​al·​ize ˈsek-sh(ə-)wə-ˌlīz How to pronounce sexualize (audio)
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
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
But rather than helping girls explore identities such as doctors or scientists — or even superheroes like boys — these days costumes often sexualize girls. Kara Alaimo, CNN, 27 Oct. 2024 Simple: because so much female imagery online is sexualized, AI is trained to think this is how women should look. Sandy Carter, Forbes, 21 Oct. 2024 Ani could be one of those tantalizing women, both marginalized and sexualized, who turn up in literature — someone like Caroline Meeber in Theodore Dreiser's Sister Carrie. Tom Gliatto, People.com, 17 Oct. 2024 The Latine Body, Predators, and Self Love Hollywood created the stereotypical curvy Latine woman character, often sexualized, which has led to a misconception that girls of this culture are more developed than other girls or should be treated like prey. Leslie D. Rose, Parents, 2 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for sexualize 

Word History

First Known Use

1839, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sexualize was in 1839

Dictionary Entries Near sexualize

Cite this Entry

“Sexualize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sexualize. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

sexualize

transitive verb
sex·​u·​al·​ize
variants also British sexualise
sexualized also British sexualised; sexualizing also British sexualising
: to make sexual : endow with a sexual character or quality
sexualization noun
also British sexualisation
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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