intellectualize
verb/ɪntəˈlɛkt͡ʃuəlaɪz/
Etymology From intellectual + -ize.
1
To treat in an intellectual manner; to discuss or express intellectually.
- Sentiment is intellectualized emotion.1867, James Russell Lowell, Rousseau and the Sentimentalists:
2
To endow with intellect; to bestow intellectual qualities upon; to cause to become intellectual.
3
US To find a seemingly rational explanation for.
4
Human sciences, Psychology, Sciences US To use (excessive) reasoning and rationalization to block out emotional stress and anxiety associated with painful or traumatic experiences.