evangelize

especially British, e·van·ge·lise

[ih-van-juh-lahyz]

verb (used with object)

evangelized, evangelizing 

1. to preach the gospel to.

2. to convert to Christianity.

verb (used without object)

evangelized, evangelizing 

1. to preach the gospel; act as an evangelist.

evangelize

/ ɪˈvændʒɪˌlaɪz /

verb

1. to preach the Christian gospel or a particular interpretation of it (to)

2. (intr) to advocate a cause with the object of making converts

Other Word Forms

• evangelization noun
• evangelizer noun
• unevangelized adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of evangelize¹

1350–1400; Middle English evangelisen < Late Latin evangelizāre < Late Greek euangelízein. See evangel ¹, -ize

Example Sentences

“The approach that we adopted and evangelized over the last two years has proven to be really effective at decreasing harm and violence,” Braniff told the task force.

From Salon

Maybe I wouldn’t be so tempted to evangelize if it weren’t for Cruise and director Chris McQuarrie’s ability to so presciently understand what the “Mission: Impossible” franchise can be.

From Salon

Minnie was devoted to the Salvation Army because of the church’s dedication to evangelizing and doing good works.

From Los Angeles Times

Strahovski excels at playing white woman privilege to the hilt, and never as much as when she finds herself back on top, ready to evangelize for women’s oppression yet again.

From Salon

She compares her numerous postscreening Q&As to an evangelizing mission.

From Los Angeles Times