Civilise (Verb)
Meaning 1
Raise from a barbaric to a civilized state; "The wild child found wandering in the forest was gradually civilized".
Classification
Verbs of size, temperature change, intensifying, etc..
Examples
- Their ultimate goal was to civilise the supposedly uncivilised tribes by introducing them to European culture and values.
- Spending years in captivity, the previously feral child was gradually civilised by her caregivers who showed her love and kindness.
- Anthropologists have always argued over whether or not it's our responsibility to civilise remote and untouched societies.
- Some people believe that exposure to classical music and fine art can help civilise a community and foster a deeper appreciation for the world around them.
- The colonisers claimed their mission was to civilise and bring order to the region but critics believe this was just an excuse for exploitation.
Synonyms
Hypernyms
Related Words
Meaning 2
Teach or refine to be discriminative in taste or judgment; "Cultivate your musical taste"; "Train your tastebuds"; "She is well schooled in poetry".
Classification
Verbs of political and social activities and events.
Examples
- The travel writer's descriptive passages civilise readers to appreciate the beauty found in exotic landscapes.
- Her parents sent her to music school to civilise her raw talent into a polished sound.
- The book club's selections were chosen to civilise the members' literary tastes by exposing them to a wide range of styles and genres.
- Her years at culinary school helped to civilise her palate, enabling her to discern even the subtlest flavours in a dish.
- The gallery tour guide's expert commentary served to civilise the visitors' appreciation of modern art by explaining the intentions behind each piece.