prioritize

verb

pri·​or·​i·​tize prī-ˈȯr-ə-ˌtīz How to pronounce prioritize (audio)
-ˈär-;
ˈprī-ə-rə-
prioritized; prioritizing
Synonyms of prioritize

transitive verb

: to list or rate (projects, goals, etc.) in order of priority
prioritization
prī-ˌȯr-ə-tə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce prioritize (audio)
-är-;
ˌprī-ə-rə-
noun

Examples of prioritize in a Sentence

It's always difficult to prioritize work, school, and family. If you want to do your job efficiently, you have to learn to prioritize. The town council hopes to prioritize the bridge construction project at the next meeting.
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 shipping industry and regulators are struggling to adapt, still prioritizing efficiency over survivability. — Craig Hooper, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026 Former diplomats who have worked extensively on human rights told us they were shocked that the victimization of white South Africans would be prioritized over the serious issues elsewhere in the region. — Anna Maria Barry-Jester, ProPublica, 7 Aug. 2026 Maybe while men’s and women’s friendships may differ in specifics, the benefits people gain from these relationships are things that are universally valued and prioritized. — Diego Guevara Beltran, The Conversation, 7 Aug. 2026 During his visit to Congo on Wednesday, World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus urged authorities to prioritize care and support for the responders. — ABC News, 6 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for prioritize

Word History

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of prioritize was in 1961

Rhymes for prioritize

See All Rhymes for prioritize

Browse Nearby Words

prioritied
prioritize
priority
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Prioritize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prioritize. Accessed 8 Aug. 2026.

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