literalize

verb

lit·​er·​al·​ize ˈli-t(ə-)rə-ˌlīz How to pronounce literalize (audio)
literalized; literalizing

transitive verb

: to make literal
literalization
ˌli-t(ə-)rə-lə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce literalize (audio)
noun

Examples of literalize in a Sentence

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.
But even here — under a tangle of rope and lace, designed by Rajha Shakiry, that seems to literalize the World Wide Web — the argot of social media invades. — Alexis Soloski, New York Times, 13 Jan. 2023 Or to literalize the notion that, duh, relationships can be scary? — Justin Changfilm Critic, Los Angeles Times, 22 Jan. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1703, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of literalize was in 1703

Rhymes for literalize

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literalize
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Cite this Entry

“Literalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/literalize. Accessed 21 Mar. 2025.

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