Definition of "galvanize"

galvanize

/ˈɡælvənaɪ̯z/

verb
third-person singular simple present galvanizes, present participle galvanizing, simple past and past participle galvanized
1. (chemistry) To coat with a thin layer of metal by electrochemical means.
2. To coat with rust-resistant zinc.
3. (figurative) To shock or stimulate into sudden activity, as if by electric shock.
  Quotations
  The arrival of the kett stunned and then divided the angara. As described by Jaal, infighting was used as a means of conquest by the kett, but the presence of a common enemy eventually galvanized the angara to work together. The various resistance groups merged into the organized Angaran Resistance roughly five years ago under Evfra de Tershaav's command, supported by prominent families and determined to stop their kett oppressors.
  2017, BioWare, Mass Effect: Andromeda (Science Fiction), Redwood City: Electronic Arts, PC, scene: Angara: The Resistance Codex entry
4. (archaic) To electrify, as by galvanism.
  Quotations
  The agitations resembled the grinnings and writhings of a galvanized corpse, not the struggles of an athletic man.
  1835, Thomas Babington Macaulay, History (essay in the Edinburgh Review)
5. (historical, US) To switch sides between Union and Confederate in the American Civil War.
  Quotations
  Reenactors called this “galvanizing,” the Civil War term for soldiers who switched sides during the conflict.
  1998, Tony Horwitz, Confederates in the Attic, 1st Vintage Departures edition, Vintage Books, page 10

Definition of "galvanize"

galvanize

verb

Quotations

Quotations

Quotations