traumatize

verb

trau·​ma·​tize ˈtrȯ-mə-ˌtīz How to pronounce traumatize (audio)
also
ˈtrau̇- How to pronounce traumatize (audio)
traumatized; traumatizing

transitive verb

: to inflict a trauma upon
traumatization noun

Examples of traumatize in a Sentence

He was traumatized by the experience.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Using a dirty cutting instrument will transfer bacteria, and a dull one will traumatize your blooms. Snip the stem at a 45 degree angle. Mary Catherine McAnnally Scott, Southern Living, 14 Feb. 2025 Trump traumatized his European partners during his first term in office by threatening not to defend any member that doesn’t meet NATO guidelines for military spending. Lorne Cook, Chicago Tribune, 12 Feb. 2025 Their freedom has brought some relief to a nation traumatized daily by images of civilians and soldiers held captive since October 7, 2023. Mick Krever, CNN, 30 Jan. 2025 This is yet another reminder of how many lives have been impacted by these devastating fires and just how traumatizing this is for animals, too. Dana Feldman, Forbes, 11 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for traumatize 

Word History

First Known Use

1903, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of traumatize was in 1903

Dictionary Entries Near traumatize

Cite this Entry

“Traumatize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/traumatize. Accessed 21 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

traumatize

verb
trau·​ma·​tize ˈtrau̇-mə-ˌtīz How to pronounce traumatize (audio)
ˈtrȯ-
traumatized; traumatizing
: to inflict trauma upon
was traumatized by the accident

Medical Definition

traumatize

transitive verb
trau·​ma·​tize
variants also British traumatise
traumatized also British traumatised; traumatizing also British traumatising
: to inflict a trauma upon
traumatized tissues
children traumatized by physical abuse
traumatization noun
also British traumatisation
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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