southernize

transitive verb

south·​ern·​ize

-ˌnīz

-ed/-ing/-s

sometimes capitalized

: to imbue with qualities native to or associated with a southern region and especially the southern states of the U.S.

Word History

Etymology

southern + -ize

First Known Use

1857, in the meaning defined above

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

• More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
• Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
• Advanced search features
• Ad free!