WorldAugust 15, 2026

criminalizes

KRIM-uh-nuh-lay-ziz

Definition

To officially classify an act as a crime or an illegal offense punishable by law.

Etymology

Derived from the English word 'criminal' and the suffix '-ize,' which turns nouns or adjectives into verbs. It stems from the Latin 'criminalis,' meaning 'pertaining to crime.'

In the news

The article uses this term to explain that Colorado has passed legislation making it a punishable offense to leave food or trash out for bears. This emphasizes the legal consequences now facing residents who attract wildlife.

New Colorado law criminalizes leaving food, trash for bears

Read the full article ↗

KOAA News 5

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