socialize

verb

so·​cial·​ize ˈsō-shə-ˌlīz How to pronounce socialize (audio)
socialized; socializing

transitive verb

1
: to make social
especially : to fit or train for a social environment
2
a
: to constitute on a socialistic basis
socialize industry
b
: to adapt to social needs or uses
3
: to organize group participation in
socialize a recitation

intransitive verb

: to participate actively in a social group
socializer noun

Examples of socialize in a Sentence

She danced and socialized at the party. he likes to socialize with his coworkers after work ends
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.
Stimson and Bean socialized with their colleagues regularly. Catherine Musemeche, Smithsonian Magazine, 13 Feb. 2025 Join a gym with a coffee or smoothie bar or anything else that promotes socializing before or after a sweat session. Melissa Oyler, Charlotte Observer, 12 Feb. 2025 Location: The Landing-Minnesota River Heritage Park, 2187 Highway 101 E., Shakopee Info: 763-559-9000 Sunday Aug. 25 FRONTIER FOLK SCHOOL Try your hand at pioneer-era handicrafts while socializing with friends. Meghan Davy Sandvold, Twin Cities, 8 Feb. 2025 The session will include a walk followed by socializing in the nature center. Mike Danahey, Chicago Tribune, 4 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for socialize 

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of socialize was in 1765

Dictionary Entries Near socialize

Cite this Entry

“Socialize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/socialize. Accessed 19 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

socialize

verb
so·​cial·​ize ˈsō-shə-ˌlīz How to pronounce socialize (audio)
socialized; socializing
1
: to make social
especially : to make fit for a social environment
2
: to take part in social activities
socializing with friends after work
socialization noun
socializer noun

Medical Definition

socialize

transitive verb
so·​cial·​ize
variants also British socialise
socialized also British socialised; socializing also British socialising
: to make social
especially : to fit or train for society or a social environment
children are socialized according to a given cultural pattern H. A. Murray & C. K. Kluckhohn

More from Merriam-Webster on socialize

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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