v.tr. (also -ise) 1 (often foll. by into) rouse forcefully, esp. by shock or excitement (was galvanized into action). 2 stimulate by or as if by electricity. 3 coat (iron) with zinc (usu. without the use of electricity) as a protection against rust. galvanization n. galvanizer n.
[ F galvaniser: see GALVANISM ]