Italianizing

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. Act of adapting or converting something into the Italian language or style; making language, culture, or customs more Italian in character or appearance; modifying words or expressions to reflect Italian pronunciation or usage
2. The process of transforming language, cultural traits, or practices toward those typical of Italy; altering terminology or mannerisms to conform with Italian norms; bringing foreign elements into alignment with Italian linguistic or aesthetic standards
3. Changing elements of speech, writing, or traditions to resemble those found in Italy; applying Italian characteristics to non-Italian words or customs; shaping content or behavior to appear more Italian in nature or form

Etymology: "Italianize" is a plain formation: the adjective "Italian" (from Italy, a name rooted in Latin "Italia") with the suffix "-ize," meaning "to make." Its suffix has a long pedigree, passing from Ancient Greek "-izein" through Late Latin "-izare," then Old French "-iser," and into Middle English as "-isen," before settling into the modern "-ize" spelling. Its meaning is correspondingly direct: to make something Italian in character, style or language. "Italianizing" is the ongoing form of that verb, so it describes the process while it is underway, as in an Italianizing wave of fashion or a name being gradually Italianized. The construction is a regular one, following the same pattern as English verbs such as "Americanizing" or "modernizing," so it shows no unusual twist in meaning.

Synonyms: italianising, adopting Italian style, making Italian