1. the process or act of converting people to a religious faith, typically Christianity, through missionary work
Usage: often used in historical or anthropological contexts; can carry neutral or critical connotations depending on perspective

Examples

• The missionization of indigenous populations in the Americas began in the 16th century.
• Historians debate the effects of missionization on native cultures and traditions.
• The church's missionization efforts expanded significantly during the colonial period.
• Missionization campaigns often accompanied European exploration and settlement.
• Some scholars view missionization as a form of cultural imperialism.
• The missionization process involved both religious instruction and social change.