ˈsəd. ə lˌīz, ˈsə(b)t ə lˌīz, ˈsəbtə̇ˌlīz verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Usage: see -ize
Etymology: Medieval Latin subtilizare, from Latin subtilis fine, thin, subtle + Late Latin -izare -ize
transitive verb
: to make subtile: as
a. : rarefy , refine , sublimate , exalt
b. : to clarify and sharpen (as the mind or senses) : make keen
c. : to treat with subtlety : introduce fine-drawn or nice distinctions into the use, discussion, or interpretation of
subtilize words
subtilized his activities
intransitive verb
: to use subtlety : analyse, argue, or deal with materials in a subtle fashion
subtilized more than other poets