What does bastardizing mean?
Bastardizing is the present participle of the verb bastardize, meaning to corrupt, degrade, or distort something so that it loses its original quality, purity, or character. It is most often applied to creative and cultural works — a film adaptation may be accused of bastardizing a novel, or a pop song of bastardizing a folk tradition — but it can describe any process seen as cheapening something once held to be authentic. The word carries a strongly negative, judgmental tone: to say something is being bastardized is not merely to observe change but to condemn it as a corruption. The term derives from "bastard," via Old French and medieval Latin, originally referring to illegitimate birth, and by extension came to suggest impurity of origin or diluted pedigree. In modern usage it appears frequently in cultural criticism and debates over authenticity, making it useful for expressing strong disapproval of perceived degradation.
To degrade or corrupt something by reducing its quality, purity, or distinctive character.
"They accused the network of bastardizing the documentary format."
Almost always pejorative; implies the speaker regards the alteration as damage.
(Archaic/legal) To declare (a person) illegitimate.
"Under the old statutes, heirs could be bastardized by formal decree."
Rarely used today outside historical contexts.
The word traces back to Latin 'bastardus' via Old French — and for centuries, calling someone a 'bastard' was a legal status, not just an insult.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of bastardizing
Bastardizing derives from the verb bastardize, formed from "bastard," which entered English from Old French "bastard" (from medieval Latin "bastardus"). The root likely relates to "bast" (packsaddle), referring to a child conceived on one, though this is traditional rather than certain. The verb took on its figurative sense — degrading or diluting something's character — from the notion of mixed or impure lineage, appearing in English usage by at least the early 17th century.
Related word forms
How bastardizing is actually used
Carries strongly negative connotations; typically implies the speaker disapproves of the change. Common in criticism of adaptations, translations, and cultural practices. The historical legal sense (declaring illegitimacy) is now rare.
Easily confused with bastardizing
Baptizing means performing the rite of baptism, whereas bastardizing means corrupting or degrading something's original character.