privatise

/ˈprɪvəˌtaɪz/

Definitions

1. verb

to transfer ownership or management of something, especially a business or public service, from the state or a public body to private individuals or companies.

“The government decided to privatise the railway system to increase efficiency.”

2. verb

to make something private or exclusive, often in order to gain a financial advantage.

“The company tried to privatise the beach to charge tourists for access.”

3. noun

the act of transferring something from public to private ownership or management.

“The privatise of the water company led to increased prices for consumers.”

4. noun

the state of being private or exclusive.

“The privatise of the club made it difficult for outsiders to join.”

Synonyms

  • de-nationalise
  • privatize

Antonyms

  • nationalise
  • publicise