noun

westernization

wes-tern-ih-ZAY-shun

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Westernization (noun) means the process by which a society takes on the customs and practices of western culture. Example: “Rapid westernization changed the way people dressed in the city.”

noun

The process by which a society takes on the customs and practices of western culture.

"Rapid westernization changed the way people dressed in the city."

"Some argue that westernization threatens local traditions."

"The country saw growing westernization after opening its markets."

How to use westernization

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA society taking on western customs and ways of doing things.

When to use it

Westernisation, with an s, is the standard British spelling outside Oxford-style publications.

Memory tip

The -ization ending marks this as a process word, describing something happening over time rather than a fixed state.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

rapid westernization resist westernization the westernization of society process of westernization

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Rapid _____ changed the way people dressed in the city.

Etymology

The word is formed from western with the suffix -ization added, giving a noun that names the process of becoming western.

Origin: English

Antonyms

dewesternization

Rhymes for westernization

region ablation allusion emulsion ideation novation diffusion elocution extension oxidation perfusion selection

See all rhymes for westernization →

Frequently asked questions

What does westernization mean?

It refers to a society adopting the customs, practices, and ways of life associated with western culture.

Is westernization the same as westernisation?

Yes, westernisation is simply the alternative spelling used in British English outside Oxford style.

What is the opposite of westernization?

The word dewesternization is used to describe a move away from western influence.

What is the meaning of westernization?

"westernization" (noun) means the process by which a society takes on the customs and practices of western culture.