Pronunciation: [ɡˈɒθɪsˌa͡ɪz] (IPA) 
The word "Gothicise" is spelled with a "c" despite the "s" sound for pronunciation. This is because the word has Latin roots, and in Latin, the "c" is used before "i" and "e" to make the "s" sound. Therefore, in IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced /ɡɒθɪsaɪz/ with the "s" sound represented by the letters "ci" instead of "si". Gothicise means to give a Gothic character or appearance to something.
Gothicise is a verb that represents the act of modifying or transforming something, particularly in terms of style or aesthetics, to resemble or incorporate characteristics of the Gothic architectural style or the Gothic literary genre. The term is derived from the adjective "Gothic," referring to the medieval period in Europe when the architectural style known as Gothic emerged.
In the context of architecture, to gothicise means to apply or incorporate elements and features typically associated with Gothic architecture into a building or structure. This may include pointed arches, ribbed vaults, intricate tracery, stained glass windows, and high, slender towers. By gothicising a structure, one aims to evoke the sense of mystery, grandeur, and romanticism that the Gothic style is renowned for.
When it comes to literature, gothicising refers to adopting or imitating the literary features and themes commonly found in Gothic novels. This may entail creating an atmosphere of terror, employing supernatural elements, exploring psychological complexities, or studying themes like death, decay, madness, and the sublime.
Outside the realms of architecture and literature, gothicise can also be used metaphorically or figuratively. It suggests modifying or infusing something with a sense of darkness, gloom, or morbidity. For example, a person may gothicise their wardrobe by incorporating dark, Victorian-inspired clothing, or an artist might gothicise a painting by incorporating macabre or mysterious elements.
In summary, gothicise refers to the act of modifying, transforming, or adopting characteristics associated with the Gothic style, whether in the context of architecture, literature, or other creative endeavors.
To reduce to barbarism.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Gothicise" is derived from the term "Gothic", which has a complex etymology. Originally, "Gothic" referred to the East Germanic people known as the Goths, who played a significant role in shaping the history of Europe. However, the connection between the Goths and the term "Gothicise" is a more recent development.
In the early 17th century, during the Renaissance period, there was a revival of interest in medieval culture and architecture. This movement, known as the Gothic Revival, sought to emulate the architectural style of the Middle Ages. As a result, the word "Gothic" began to be associated with the architectural style characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and ornate decorations.
