Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

hypostatize

verb

hya-ˈpäs-tə-ˌzīz

Definition

To treat or consider something as a distinct, concrete entity.

Examples

The philosopher tended to hypostatize ideas, presenting them as if they had a physical existence.
In discussions about morality, some people hypostatize concepts like justice and fairness.
It’s easy to hypostatize emotions, giving them a weight and form that they don’t inherently possess.

Meaning

Hypostatize refers to the act of attributing a substance or reality to something that is abstract or not tangible, often treating it as if it were a substance or a specific thing.