socialize

verb

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

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
ˈsō-shə-ˌlī-zər How to pronounce socialize (audio)
noun

Synonyms of socialize

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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.
The slower pace allows friends to socialize on the way, and the exercise releases doses of endorphins, dopamine and serotonin to improve student’s moods and brain health for a better day. — Letters To The Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 1 Aug. 2026 Teenagers and young adults spend more time online and in front of screens than previous generations did, meaning younger Americans are socializing remotely. — Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 1 Aug. 2026 Similar statistics were reported in a 2025 American Time Use Survey, which found people spending less time socializing and more time playing video games or using social media. — Taylor Seely, USA Today, 1 Aug. 2026 In the old layout, cooking and socializing competed for the same square footage. — R. Daniel Foster, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026 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

Rhymes for socialize

See All Rhymes for socialize

Browse Nearby Words

socialization
socialize
socialized medicine
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Cite this Entry

“Socialize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/socialize. Accessed 7 Aug. 2026.

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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
ˌsōsh-(ə-)lə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce socialize (audio)
noun
socializer
ˈsō-shə-ˌlī-zər How to pronounce socialize (audio)
noun

Medical Definition

socialize

transitive verb
so·​cial·​ize
variants also British socialise
ˈsō-shə-ˌlīz How to pronounce socialize (audio)
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

Nglish: Translation of socialize for Spanish Speakers

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