ˈlib(ə)rəˌlīz verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: liberal (I) + -ize
transitive verb
1. : to make liberal or more liberal: as
a. : to imbue with liberal ideas, principles, or attitudes
somewhat liberalized politically after he was exposed to a variety of opposing opinions
b. : to alter in the direction of breaking away from orthodoxy, tradition, or an established pattern
liberalize the ritual of the church
liberalize a college curriculum
c. : to make less strict or rigorous
liberalize the immigration laws
d. : to make larger, freer, fuller, or more comprehensive (as in coverage or scope)
liberalized health and hospitalization coverage by insurance companies — Trends
studies to liberalize the mind
an effort to liberalize foreign trade — Time
2. : to free from official control : decontrol
intransitive verb
: to become liberal or more liberal in ideas, principles, attitudes, or affiliations