tenderize

verb

ten·​der·​ize ˈten-də-ˌrīz 

tenderized; tenderizing

transitive verb

: to make (meat or meat products) tender by applying a process or substance that breaks down connective tissue

tenderization

ˌten-d(ə-)rə-ˈzā-shən 

noun

tenderizer

ˈten-də-ˌrī-zər 

noun

Examples of tenderize in a Sentence

The marinade helps to tenderize the meat.

Recent Examples on the Web

Buttermilk slightly tenderizes the fish but also makes certain flour can adhere to the fat for an even, crispy crust when frying. —Jack Hennessy, Outdoor Life, 29 Apr. 2026

Smashing the spears with a rolling pin and dressing them in lemon and olive oil magically tenderizes the otherwise tough veg. —Nina Moskowitz, Bon Appetit Magazine, 28 Apr. 2026

This allows the thicker tops time to tenderize. —Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Apr. 2026

First, apply a rub to tenderize the meat and load it with flavor before adding it to the slow cooker with a rich broth. —Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 5 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

tender entry 1 + -ize

First Known Use

1930, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for tenderize

• advertise
• aggrandize
• agonize
• alibis
• alkalies
• alkalis
• amortize
• amplifies
• analyse
• analyze
• anywise
• authorize

Kids Definition

tenderize

verb

ten·​der·​ize ˈten-də-ˌrīz 

tenderized; tenderizing

: to make (meat or meat products) tender by using a process or substance that breaks down connective tissue

tenderization

ˌten-d(ə-)rə-ˈzā-shən 

noun

tenderizer

ˈten-də-ˌrī-zər 

noun