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Webster 1913 Edition


Proselytize

Pros′e-ly-tize

,
Verb.
T.
[
imp. & p. p.
proselytized
;
p. pr. & vb. n.
Proselytizing
.]
To convert to some religion, system, opinion, or the like; to bring, or cause to come, over; to proselyte.
One of those whom they endeavor to
proselytize
.
Burke.

Pros′e-ly-tize

,
Verb.
I.
To make converts or proselytes.

Webster 1828 Edition


Proselytize

PROS'ELYTIZE

, to make converts, or to convert, is not well authorized, or not in common use, and is wholly unnecessary.

Definition 2024


proselytize

proselytize

English

Alternative forms

Verb

proselytize (third-person singular simple present proselytizes, present participle proselytizing, simple past and past participle proselytized)

  1. (intransitive) To encourage or induce people to join a religious movement, political party, or other cause or organization.
    • 1909, Ralph Connor, The Foreigner, ch. 14:
      "I am not sent here to proselytize. My church is not in that business."
    • 2001, Douglas Waller, "A Terror Threat From The South," Time, 10 Dec.:
      Counterterrorism officials believe bin Laden has set up cells to proselytize the large Middle East expatriate population living in the area.
    It is illegal to proselytize in some countries
  2. (transitive) To convert (someone) to one’s own faith or beliefs.
    • Burke
      One of those whom they endeavour to proselytize.

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