legalize
Legalize (verb) means to make something officially permitted by law. Example: “Several states have voted to legalize recreational marijuana.”
How to use legalize
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo turn something that was banned into something officially allowed.
British English often spells this "legalise," while American English prefers "legalize."
Word forms
legalized past tense, legalizes singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Several states have voted to _____ recreational marijuana.
Etymology
From legal plus -ize, "to make."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for legalize
See all rhymes for legalize →Frequently asked questions
What does “legalize” mean?
The word “legalize” means to make something officially permitted by law. In plain terms, to turn something that was banned into something officially allowed.
How do you pronounce “legalize”?
“Legalize” is pronounced LEE-guh-lyz (/ˈliːɡəlaɪz/ in IPA).
How do you use “legalize” in a sentence?
Here is “legalize” used in a sentence: “Several states have voted to legalize recreational marijuana.”
What is the opposite of “legalize”?
The opposite of “legalize” — its antonyms — are criminalize and illegalize.
What part of speech is “legalize”?
“Legalize” is a verb.
Is “legalize” a common word?
“Legalize” is an uncommon word in modern English.