baalize
|baal-ize|
/ˈbeɪəlaɪz/
make into an idol; treat as master
Etymology
'baalize' originates from Northwest Semitic (via Biblical Hebrew and Phoenician), specifically the word 'Baal', where 'Baal' meant 'lord' or 'owner'; the English suffix '-ize' (from Greek/Latin influence) was then added to form a verb meaning 'to make into or treat as (a Baal)'.
'Baal' entered English usage through Biblical Hebrew and classical transmissions (Greek and Latin) as the name of a Canaanite deity; in Modern English the productive verb-forming suffix '-ize' was attached to the proper name to coin 'baalize' with the sense of rendering into a Baal or treating as a Baal.
Initially, the sense was literal—'to make someone or something into a Baal (an idol to be worshiped)'; over time the word also developed figurative usage meaning 'to idolize or treat as an unquestioned master.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to make into or dedicate as a Baal (the ancient Near Eastern deity); to cause to be worshiped or treated as a pagan idol.
The conquerors baalized the local temples, installing statues and active cults to Baal.
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Verb 2
figuratively, to treat a person, thing, or idea as an unquestioned master or absolute authority; to idolize or place ultimate authority in.
Critics argue that modern consumer culture baalizes certain brands, turning them into objects of devotion.
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Last updated: 2025/12/22 17:05