from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
evangelize \e*van"gel*ize\ ([-e]*v[a^]n"j[e^]l*[imac]z), v. t.
[imp. & p. p. {evangelized} ([-e]*v[a^]n"j[e^]l*[imac]zd); p.
pr. & vb. n. {evangelizing}
([-e]*v[a^]n"j[e^]l*[imac]*z[i^]ng)]. [F. ['e]vang['e]lisre,
LL. evangelizare, fr. Gr. e'yaggeli`zesqai.]
1. To instruct in the gospel; to preach the gospel to; to
convert to Christianity; as, to evangelize the world.
[1913 Webster]
His apostles whom he sends
To evangelize the nations. --Milton.
[1913 Webster]
2. Hence: [metaphorical] To preach and attempt to convert
(people) to one's firmly held belief.
[PJC]