D defs.my
Entry 5 senses · 2 variants Webster, 1913

Rationalize

/(răsh"ŭn*al*īz)/ · Ra·tion·al·ize · IPA /ˈɹæʃənəlaɪz/
01 v. t. To make rational; also, to convert to rationalism.
  1. 1.
    To make rational; also, to convert to rationalism.
  2. 2.
    To interpret in the manner of a rationalist.
  3. 3.
    To form a rational conception of.
  4. 4.
    To render rational; to free from radical signs or quantities.(Alg.)
02 v. i. To use, and rely on, reason in forming a theory, belief, etc., especially in matters of religion: to accord with the principles of rationalism.
  1. 1.
    To use, and rely on, reason in forming a theory, belief, etc., especially in matters of religion: to accord with the principles of rationalism.
    “Theodore . . . is justly considered the chief rationalizing doctor of antiquity.” J. H. Newman.