bowdlerize
bowd·ler·ize
verb \ˈbōd-lə-ˌrīz, ˈbau̇d-\bowd·ler·izedbowd·ler·iz·ing
Definition of BOWDLERIZE
transitive verb
1
: to expurgate (as a book) by omitting or modifying parts considered vulgar
2
: to modify by abridging, simplifying, or distorting in style or content
— bowd·ler·i·za·tion \ˌbōd-lə-rə-ˈzā-shən, ˌbau̇d-\ noun
— bowd·ler·iz·er noun
See Examples of BOWDLERIZE
- bowdlerize a classic novel by removing offensive language
- <a bowdlerized version of “Gulliver's Travels” that purportedly makes it unobjectionable for children>
Origin of BOWDLERIZE
Thomas Bowdler †1825 English editor
First Known Use: 1836
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