Intellectualize

Alternative forms

• (British) intellectualise

Full definition of intellectualize

Verb

1. To treat in an intellectual manner; to discuss or express intellectually.Sentiment is intellectualized emotion. — Lowell.
2. To endow with intellect; to bestow intellectual qualities upon; to cause to become intellectual.
3. (US, transitive) to find a seemingly rational explanation for something:
1. (psychology) to use (excessive) reasoning and rationalization to block out emotional stress and anxiety associated with painful or traumatic experiences

Derived terms

• overintellectualize