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.
However subconsciously, internalized and socialized norms and preconceptions shape every assumption, presumption, action and reaction, both in and out of the workplace. Christina L. Sgro, Forbes, 11 Mar. 2025 The big picture: The cellphone ban is part of the school's larger mental health movement, in which staff members are encouraging students to socialize more. Linh Ta, Axios, 11 Mar. 2025 The narwhals seemed to be relaxed, just gently socializing, as this is a time of the year that seems less critical for feeding or mating. Nell Greenfieldboyce, NPR, 10 Mar. 2025 She is socialized, great on a leash and loves all people and dogs. Maryanne Dell, Orange County Register, 8 Mar. 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

Cite this Entry

“Socialize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/socialize. Accessed 20 Mar. 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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