ˈ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ˌnīz verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: French humaniser, from Middle French, from Latin humanus + Middle French -iser -ize
transitive verb
1.
a. : to give a human character or aspect to : treat or regard as human : represent in human form
there is no worship here, … but nevertheless they humanize the crocodiles — W.W.Howells
b. : to adapt or make congenial to human nature, sensibilities, or use : make more sympathetic or responsive to human needs or desires
dedicated himself … to the humanizing of business and finance — George Wolf
2. : to make humane : make gentle : soften , refine , civilize
nations have feebly tried to humanize and regulate war — Vera M. Dean
New England was appointed to guide the nation, to … humanize it — Van Wyck Brooks
intransitive verb
1. : to become humane
2. : to have or spread a civilizing influence
it is the function of women to humanize — M.F.A.Montagu