1. makes something illegal by law; treats something as a criminal offense
Usage: third person singular present tense of ‘criminalize’

Examples

• The new law criminalizes the possession of certain substances.
• This legislation criminalizes hate speech in public spaces.
• The government criminalizes tax evasion with heavy penalties.
• The bill criminalizes driving without a valid license.
• Many countries criminalize the sale of ivory products.
• The statute criminalizes unauthorized access to computer systems.