Legalize
ˈliːɡəlaɪz
Definitions
To make something previously illegal permissible by law; to authorize something.
ˈliːɡəlaɪz
To make something lawful or permitted by law.
The government voted to legalize same-sex marriage.
💡 Simply: Imagine something you're not allowed to do, like having a lemonade stand on the sidewalk. To legalize it means the city decides it's okay and makes a rule so you *can* have your lemonade stand!
👶 For kids: To make something okay by law. Like, if something was not allowed, making it allowed!
More Examples
They're planning to legalize the sale of recreational drugs.
The new law will legalize several previously banned activities.
How It's Used
"Many countries are debating whether to legalize marijuana."
"The government decided to legalize online gambling."
From legal (adjective) + -ize (verb-forming suffix). The word's usage increased with discussions around laws and regulations.
The word 'legalize' started being regularly used in legislative contexts during the 19th century, coinciding with law reform movements.
Memory tip
Think of making something 'legal' and add 'ize' to show the action.