weaponize

verb

weap·​on·​ize ˈwe-pə-ˌnīz How to pronounce weaponize (audio)
weaponized; weaponizing

transitive verb

: to adapt for use as a weapon of war
weaponization noun

Examples of weaponize 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.
At Contenders, Vindman expressed concern to Deadline’s Matthew Carey that reservists could be weaponized by future presidents. Fred Topel, Deadline, 8 Dec. 2024 But a lot depends on how things go for her in D.C. In a post-DeSantis Florida, Democrats may see a path to exploit the upheaval, weaponizing chaos and making the 2026 governor’s race more competitive in a midterm election when a sitting president’s popularity is likely to take a major hit. Steve Bousquet, Sun Sentinel, 7 Dec. 2024 This ranges from explicit images of students to ads from public figures, underscoring the realism, ease of use and ways deepfake tools could be weaponized against consumers in the future. Rodger Desai, Forbes, 6 Dec. 2024 The Democratic Party’s failure is particularly maddening given that right-wing groups have consistently recognized and weaponized the connection between movements for bodily autonomy. Colleen Hamilton, Them, 4 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for weaponize 

Word History

First Known Use

1957, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of weaponize was in 1957

Dictionary Entries Near weaponize

Cite this Entry

“Weaponize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/weaponize. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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