Definitions

1. verb

to cause or contribute to the onset of rheumatism or a rheumatic condition

“The cold winter weather is likely to rheumatize people who already have arthritis.”

2. verb

to cause pain or stiffness in the joints, especially in a way that is similar to rheumatism

“The strenuous hike rheumatized my knees, and I had to stop for a break.”

3. noun

the act or process of causing or contributing to the onset of rheumatism or a rheumatic condition

“The rheumatization of her joints was a gradual process that started after she fell on the ice.”