[nach-er-uh-lahyz, nach-ruh-] 
verb, -ized, -iz⋅ing.| 1. | to confer upon (an alien) the rights and privileges of a citizen. |
| 2. | to introduce (organisms) into a region and cause them to flourish as if native. |
| 3. | to introduce or adopt (foreign practices, words, etc.) into a country or into general use: to naturalize a French phrase. |
| 4. | to bring into conformity with nature. |
| 5. | to regard or explain as natural rather than supernatural: to naturalize miracles. |
| 6. | to adapt or accustom to a place or to new surroundings. |
| 7. | to become naturalized. |
| 8. | to adapt as if native to a new environment, set of circumstances, etc. |
| 9. | to study or carry on research in natural history. |
| nat·u·ral·ize (nāch'ər-ə-līz', nāch'rə-) v. nat·u·ral·ized, nat·u·ral·iz·ing, nat·u·ral·iz·es v. tr.
To become naturalized or acclimated; undergo adaptation. nat'u·ral·iz'a·ble adj., nat'u·ral·i·za'tion (-lĭ-zā'shən) n. |
The process by which a foreign citizen becomes a citizen of a new country. Millions of immigrants to the United States have become American citizens. Requirements for naturalization in the United States include residency for several years, ability to communicate in English, demonstrated knowledge of American history and government, and a dedication to American values that includes no membership in subversive organizations, such as the Communist party.
| naturalize (nāch'ər-ə-līz') Pronunciation Key
To establish a nonnative species in a region where it is able to reproduce successfully and live alongside native species in the wild. Naturalized species may be introduced intentionally or unintentionally. Eucalyptus trees are native to Australia but have become naturalized in many other parts of the world. |
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