Barbarize - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

cultural change

To barbarize means to make something more primitive, less cultured, or to regress in terms of civilization. It is often associated with the transformation of a refined or sophisticated entity into a more brutal or uncivilized version. This term can also suggest a loss of refinement and the adoption of more savage, crude behaviors or practices. In literature and anthropology, it might refer to societies that abandon their cultural norms in favor of more aggressive or violent ways of life.

Synonyms

brutalize, degrade, vulgarize.

Examples of usage

The invasion seemed to barbarize the previously sophisticated civilization.
Many critics argue that modern media tends to barbarize the younger generation.
In times of war, societies tend to barbarize and lose their humanistic values.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Perspectives

The concept of barbarism has historically been used to distinguish 'civilized' societies from those deemed 'primitive' or 'savage' by outsiders.
In literature, barbarize often reflects the tensions between civilization and wildness, serving as a theme in works from ancient times to modern narratives.
Certain historical events, like colonialism, were justified by the idea of 'civilizing' 'barbaric' peoples, showcasing the biased use of the term.

Psychology

Psychologically, perceiving others as barbaric can lead to dehumanization, making it easier to justify violence against them.
Social psychology suggests that labeling a group as 'barbaric' can create in-group and out-group dynamics, fostering conflict.
Research indicates that describing behaviors as barbaric can affect how we empathize with individuals or groups marked by that label.

Literature

In 'The Tempest,' Shakespeare explores themes of civilization vs. barbarism, prompting readers to question what truly defines a civilized being.
Modern authors often critique and redefine barbarism in their works, challenging traditional narratives about civilization.
Dystopian literature frequently depicts societies where barbarization has occurred, exploring the consequences of losing touch with humanity.

Sociology

Studies in sociology show that discussions of barbarism often reveal cultural biases, leading to misunderstandings between societies.
The notion of barbarism may also refer to cultural practices that are considered deviant or unacceptable by a dominant culture, highlighting power dynamics.
In globalization, the term 'barbarize' can be used to critique the loss of cultural identity amidst homogenization of global cultures.

Origin of 'barbarize'

Main points about word origin

The word 'barbarize' comes from 'barbarian,' which originally referred to people who did not speak Greek, and sounded like 'bar-bar' to Greeks.
This term has been used since the late 19th century to describe the process of becoming uncivilized or rough in behavior.
The suffix '-ize' implies a transformation or process, indicating a shift towards barbaric qualities.

The word 'barbarize' originates from the Greek term 'barbaros', meaning 'foreigner' or 'non-Greek', which was used to characterize those who were perceived as uncivilized and lacking in the culture of ancient Greece. The Latin equivalent 'barbarus' carried a similar connotation and was adopted into Middle English as 'barbarous'. The suffix '-ize' denotes the action of making or becoming, hence 'to barbarize' emerged in English as a term to describe the process of becoming barbarous or uncivilized. This word has been utilized in various contexts throughout history, often in sociopolitical discourses addressing the effects of colonization, war, and cultural assimilation, examining how advanced societies can sometimes regress to more primal states under duress or influence.

Barbarize Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations