underutilize

verb

un·​der·​uti·​lize ˌən-dər-ˈyü-tə-ˌlīz How to pronounce underutilize (audio)
underutilized; underutilizing; underutilizes

transitive verb

: to utilize less than fully or below the potential use
underutilization
ˈən-dər-ˌyü-tə-lə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce underutilize (audio)
noun

Examples of underutilize 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.
Last year the county and Metropolitan Transit Service announced plans to use more than 13 acres of land deemed underutilized for new affordable rental housing. — Deborah Sullivan Brennan, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Mar. 2023 Fowler too often plays underwritten side characters, underutilizing his comedic potential. — Jourdain Searles, The Hollywood Reporter, 17 Mar. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1951, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of underutilize was in 1951

Rhymes for underutilize

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Browse Nearby Words

underused
underutilize
underutilized
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Cite this Entry

“Underutilize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/underutilize. Accessed 28 Mar. 2025.

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