syphilize

transitive verb

syph·​i·​lize

ˈsifəˌlīz

-ed/-ing/-s

1

: to inoculate with syphilis

2

: to introduce syphilis among

Word History

Etymology

French syphiliser, from syphil- + -iser -ize

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!