The word "naturalise" is spelled with a "z" in British English and with an "s" in American English. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈnætʃrəlaɪz/, where the "ch" sound represents the "tsh" sound. This word means to legally become a citizen of a country where one was not born. In addition to its standard meaning, "naturalise" can also refer to the process by which a non-native species becomes established in a new environment.
The term "naturalise" is a verb that can have various interpretations depending on the context. In general, it refers to the process or act of making something, particularly an entity or an individual, become natural or inherent to a specific environment.
One of the common uses of the term is related to the act of granting citizenship or legal status to an individual who was born in a foreign country. In this sense, to "naturalise" means to confer citizenship upon a person who was not originally a citizen of the country where they reside, thereby making their status permanent and legally recognized.
In the field of biology, "naturalise" can describe the adaptation or acclimatization of a species to an environment other than its native one. This may occur when a species is introduced intentionally or accidentally to a new habitat or region, and it successfully establishes a population and reproduces.
Furthermore, "naturalise" can also refer to the process of integrating an aspect or element into one's daily life or routine seamlessly, as if it were innate or instinctive. For instance, when someone adopts a new habit, practice, or belief and incorporates it into their lifestyle effortlessly and without much effort, it can be said that they have "naturalised" that particular aspect.
Overall, the term "naturalise" encompasses various meanings related to the assimilation, adaptation, or integration of an entity or concept, whether it is an individual becoming a citizen, a species thriving in a foreign habitat, or the embrace of new habits or beliefs.
To invest a foreigner with the rights and privileges of a citizen or subject; to acclimatise.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "naturalise" has its origins in the Latin word "naturalis", which means "of or pertaining to nature". It is derived from the Latin word "natura", meaning "nature". The suffix "-ize" is added to "natural" to form the verb "naturalize", meaning "to make natural" or "to make part of one's nature". The word "naturalize" entered the English language in the early 19th century.