# commercialized

/kəˈmɝʃəˌɫaɪzd/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/commercialized
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

to turn something into a business that makes money. You use this when an idea, holiday, or product starts to be sold to many people.

For teachers: to convert a product, activity, or idea into a profit-making enterprise intended for mass sale. Often implies a shift from non-commercial or traditional use toward market-oriented production.

## Examples

- They commercialize farm products to earn more money.
- The small brewery commercialized its ginger beer last year and now sells it in supermarkets nationwide.
- Once commercialized, the traditional festival lost some of its quiet charm as sponsors covered every street with bright logos and stalls.

## Usage notes

- The verb is transitive and takes a direct object.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.