1. to make heathen; to convert to heathenism or cause to adopt heathen beliefs or practices
Usage: transitive; archaic or formal; often used in historical or religious contexts
2. to become heathen; to adopt heathen customs or beliefs
Usage: intransitive; archaic or formal

Examples

• Missionaries feared that prolonged isolation would heathenize the settlers.
• The colonial powers sought to prevent the heathenization of indigenous populations through religious education.
• Some critics argued that secular philosophies would heathenize Western society.
• The tribe did not heathenize despite centuries of contact with non-believers.
• Religious reformers warned against allowing pagan customs to heathenize the community.