Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
criminalize
verb
/ˈkrɪmɪnəlaɪz/
Definition
To make something illegal or to treat it as a criminal offense.
Examples
- The government decided to criminalize the use of harmful pesticides.
- Many activists argue that the law should not criminalize homelessness.
- New policies aim to criminalize discriminatory practices in the workplace.
- Some countries have chosen to criminalize drugs to control their use.
Meaning
The act of defining an action or behavior as a crime under the law.
Synonyms
- Prosecute
- Outlaw
- Ban
- Forbid
