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infantilize

verb

/ˈɪn fən tlˌaɪz/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of infantilize

To treat, portray, or address someone in a manner that reduces or diminishes their maturity, independence, or capabilities, often likening them to an infant or child.
"The boss's constant micromanaging had a tendency to infantilize the employees."

Detailed meaning of infantilize

It involves engaging with an individual as if they were younger or less capable than they actually are, disregarding their adult status or abilities. This can manifest through actions, language, or attitudes that patronize, belittle, or undermine the person's autonomy or intelligence. Infantilization can occur in various contexts, such as personal relationships, professional settings, or societal interactions. It can be driven by a desire to control, manipulate, or maintain a power dynamic over the person being infantilized. However, it is important to note that infantilizing others can be disrespectful, demeaning, and harmful, as it invalidates their agency and undermines their sense of self-worth and dignity.

Example sentences containing infantilize

1. The teacher's condescending tone seemed to infantilize the students in the classroom.
2. The overprotective parent would constantly infantilize their adult child, making all their decisions for them.
3. The marketing campaign's use of cartoon characters aimed to infantilize the target audience.
4. It is important not to infantilize individuals with disabilities, but rather empower and support their independence.
5. The media's portrayal of women often perpetuates stereotypes and infantilizes their intelligence and capabilities.
6. The authoritarian government sought to infantilize its citizens, suppressing their freedoms and promoting a dependent mindset.

History and etymology of infantilize

The verb 'infantilize' is a relatively recent term, and its etymology is straightforward. It is formed by adding the suffix '-ize' to the word 'infantile,' which is derived from the Latin word 'infantilis.' 'Infantilis' is formed from 'infans' (meaning 'infant' or 'child') and the suffix '-ilis' (denoting 'pertaining to' or 'characteristic of'). Therefore, the etymology of 'infantilize' essentially means to make someone or something more like an infant or child. This term has gained prominence in discussions about treating individuals, particularly adults, in a manner that diminishes their maturity, independence, or capabilities by likening them to infants or children, as we understand it in contemporary language.

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Further usage examples of infantilize

1. Some advertisements infantilize consumers by appealing to their desires for instant gratification.
2. The politician's speech was criticized for its attempts to infantilize the electorate, simplifying complex issues into oversimplified soundbites.
3. The senior executive's refusal to delegate tasks would inadvertently infantilize the junior employees.
4. The fashion industry has been known to infantilize women by promoting overly girlish styles and infantile aesthetics.
5. The ageist comments made by the supervisor served to infantilize the older workers in the office.
6. It's important not to infantilize adults; they deserve respect.
7. The boss's micromanagement tends to infantilize the team.
8. The media shouldn't infantilize celebrities' personal lives.
9. Some parents inadvertently infantilize their grown children.
10. Age should not be used to infantilize older employees.
11. The movie industry can infantilize complex characters.
12. Politicians often infantilize issues to gain popularity.
13. Teachers should empower, not infantilize, their students.
14. It's unfair to infantilize people based on their appearance.
15. Overprotective parents can unintentionally infantilize kids.
16. Society should strive not to infantilize individuals with disabilities.
17. Stereotypes can infantilize entire communities unfairly.
18. Caregivers must respect and not infantilize the elderly.
19. Employers should avoid policies that infantilize workers.
20. Gender biases can infantilize women in leadership roles.
21. Society needs to stop trying to infantilize the LGBTQ+ community.
22. We must challenge media that infantilizes marginalized groups.
23. Don't infantilize your partner; treat them as an equal.
24. Some advertisements infantilize consumers to sell products.
25. The goal is to empower, not infantilize, those in need.