conceptualize

verb

con·​cep·​tu·​al·​ize kən-ˈsep-chə-wə-ˌlīz How to pronounce conceptualize (audio)
-chü-ə-,
-chə-ˌlīz,
-shwə-ˌlīz
conceptualized; conceptualizing

transitive verb

: to form a concept of
conceptualize a new car design
especially : to interpret conceptually
conceptualizing reality
conceptualization
kən-ˌsep-chə-wə-lə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce conceptualize (audio)
-chü-ə-
-chə-lə-ˈzā-
-shwə-lə-ˈzā-
noun
conceptualizer
kən-ˈsep-chə-wə-ˌlī-zər How to pronounce conceptualize (audio)
-chü-ə-
-chə-ˌlī-
-shwə-ˌlī-
noun

Examples of conceptualize in a Sentence

She described her plans to me, but I found them hard to conceptualize. He conceptualizes the family as an economic unit. A programmer needs to analyze and conceptualize in order to solve problems.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The task force was first conceptualized by Wilton Rancheria Chairman Jesus Tarango. Emma Hall, Sacbee.com, 22 May 2025 The colonized lands are conceptualized of as virgin or empty, or populated by savages and barbarians who amount to less-than-human types who must make way for the settlers. Matthew Wills, JSTOR Daily, 21 May 2025 Recognizing that there are opportunities hidden in every adversity, Dobey conceptualized Hibe, a social platform with a focus on news. Nia Bowers, USA Today, 15 May 2025 Photo: Michael Roberts/Maconochie Photography There’s a lot to play for, this coming Monday, in conceptualizing a look that celebrates the message. Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 3 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for conceptualize

Word History

Etymology

see conceptual

First Known Use

1878, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of conceptualize was in 1878

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Conceptualize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/conceptualize. Accessed 28 May. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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