Here's a breakdown:
* Origin: The word comes from the Greek "proselytos," meaning "stranger," which referred to non-Jewish people who converted to Judaism.
* Meaning: To proselytize is to actively and often aggressively try to persuade someone to change their religious or ideological beliefs.
* Usage: It's often used in the context of religion, but can also apply to other beliefs or opinions.
Examples:
* "The group was accused of proselytizing in the park, trying to convert people to their faith."
* "She was a strong believer in the cause and actively proselytized for it at every opportunity."
* "The politician was criticized for proselytizing his own political agenda."
Note: Proselytizing can be a controversial topic, as it can be seen as coercive or disrespectful by some.