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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The movie vulgarly sexualizes youthful political ardor and, even more contemptibly, the very notion of racial justice. Richard Brody, New Yorker, 5 Sep. 2025 More widely, the campaign also faced pushback from some who said the ads were overly sexualized and out of touch, leading them to wonder what type of consumer the company was targeting. Gabrielle Fonrouge, CNBC, 3 Sep. 2025 They were designed for comfort rather than allure, or to sexualize the body. Tiana Randall, Forbes.com, 31 Aug. 2025 The album cover art was not the first time Carpenter has faced backlash for seemingly sexualizing herself through her music. Katherine Schaffstall, HollywoodReporter, 28 Aug. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sexualize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sexualize. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

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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