Galvanize
Definition, Meaning & Examples
Pronunciation /ˈɡælvənaɪ̯z/ · Part of speech verb
Quick meaning: Galvanize is a verb meaning (loosely, dated) To coat with a layer of metal by electrochemical means.
Meaning
(loosely, dated) To coat with a layer of metal by electrochemical means.
More Meanings
- (figurative) To shock or stimulate into sudden activity, as if by electric shock.
- (archaic) To electrify, as by galvanism.
- (historical, US) To switch sides between Union and Confederate in the American Civil War.
Example Sentences
Republicans are hoping a proposed gas-tax repeal will galvanize their voters.
The girl’s picture helped galvanize public opinion against the administration’s policy.
Reenactors called this “galvanizing,” the Civil War term for soldiers who switched sides during the conflict.
The agitations resembled the grinnings and writhings of a galvanized corpse, not the struggles of an athletic man.
Word Forms
- galvanizes
- galvanizing
- galvanized
- galvanise
Synonyms for galvanize
Depending on context, synonyms include electrogalvanize, electroplate, electrify, startle, urge, awaken.
Related Words
Related dictionary entries include startle, galvanise, catalyse, zinc, leverage, jump-start.
Related Dictionary Tools
Sources & Attribution
FreeDictionaryAPI.com / Wiktionary · Original source · CC BY-SA 4.0
Dictionary data is provided by FreeDictionaryAPI.com and sourced from Wiktionary under its stated license.