suffix (also -ise) forming verbs, meaning: 1 make or become such (Americanize; pulverize; realize). 2 treat in such a way (monopolize; pasteurize). 3 a follow a special practice (economize). b have a specified feeling (sympathize). 4 affect with, provide with, or subject to (oxidize; hospitalize). °The form -ize has been in use in English since the 16th c.; it is widely used in American English, but is not an Americanism. The alternative spelling -ise (reflecting a French influence) is in common use, esp. in British English, and is obligatory in certain cases: (a) where it forms part of a larger word-element, such as -mise (= sending) in compromise, and -prise (= taking) in surprise; and (b) in verbs corresponding to nouns with -i- in the stem, such as advertise and televise. -ization suffix forming nouns. -izer suffix forming agent nouns.
[ from or after F -iser f. LL -izare f. Gk -izo ]