pressurize

especially British, pres·sur·ise

[presh-uh-rahyz]

verb (used with object)

pressurized, pressurizing 

1. to raise the internal atmospheric pressure of to the required or desired level.

   to pressurize an astronaut's spacesuit before a walk in space.

2. to maintain normal air pressure in (the cockpit or cabin of an airplane) at high altitudes.

3. to apply pressure to (a gas or liquid); supercharge.

4. to pressure-cook.

pressurize

/ ˈprɛʃəˌraɪz /

verb

1. to increase the pressure in (an enclosure, such as an aircraft cabin) in order to maintain approximately atmospheric pressure when the external pressure is low

2. to increase pressure on (a fluid)

3. to make insistent demands of (someone); coerce

Other Word Forms

• pressurizer noun
• pressurization noun
• repressurize verb

Word History and Origins

Origin of pressurize¹

First recorded in 1940–45; pressure + -ize

Example Sentences

The pressurized, supernatural stakes in such tight quarters sometimes encourage Christopher to push a little too vociferously.

From Los Angeles Times

Cal/OSHA issued citations in October 2021 that found critical failures in the company’s safety procedures and training around its handling of pressurized gas systems.

From Los Angeles Times

While crews are digging a deep pit to reach and repair the broken valve, others are working to fill and pressurize a large water tank that serves the area.

From Los Angeles Times

We are privy, for example, to the pressurized inner movement that leads Nora to realize at the end of “A Doll’s House” that she must leave her marriage to become her own person.

From Los Angeles Times

This is a high-strength container used to store helium gas, which is critical for pressurizing the rocket’s propellant tanks and ensuring proper fuel flow to its engines.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• cause 
• charge 
• compel 
• demand 
• drag 
• drive 
• impose 
• inflict 
• limit 
• make 
• move 
• oblige 
• order 
• press 
• pressure 
• require 
• restrict 
• urge