1. the act or process of removing or censoring words, passages, or content considered offensive, indecent, or objectionable from a text, film, or other work
Usage: often implies excessive or inappropriate censorship; named after Thomas Bowdler, an 18th-century editor who removed passages from Shakespeare

Examples

• The bowdlerization of classic literature has been criticized by scholars who argue it distorts the author's original intent.
• Many parents appreciated the bowdlerization of the film to make it suitable for younger audiences.
• The publisher's bowdlerization of the novel removed several important scenes that were central to the plot.
• Critics argued that the bowdlerization of the historical text omitted crucial details about the period.
• The streaming service's bowdlerization of the comedy special disappointed fans who wanted to hear the original material.
• Some view bowdlerization as necessary protection; others see it as censorship that limits artistic freedom.