'civilianize' originates from the word 'civilian,' which comes from the Latin word 'civilis,' meaning 'relating to a citizen.'

'civilian' evolved from the Old French word 'civilien,' and eventually became the modern English word 'civilian.' The suffix '-ize' was added to form 'civilianize.'

Initially, it meant 'to make something suitable for civilian use,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.