legalize
v. B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈɫiɡəˌɫaɪz// le·gal·ize
v. to make something that was against the law allowed by the law.
v. to make an action or practice lawful by legislative or judicial action.
The government plans to legalize certain types of medicine.
After years of public debate, the country voted to legalize the sale of specific products that were previously banned.
Proponents argue that the decision to legalize the industry will generate significant tax revenue and reduce the influence of black-market operations.
From legal + -ize. Piecewise doublet of loyalize.
Usage
The verb is transitive and requires a direct object.
Pitfall
The legalization of the lawThe legalization of the practiceYou legalize an activity or a substance, not the law itself; laws are passed, amended, or repealed.