utilize

verb

uti·​lize ˈyü-tə-ˌlīz How to pronounce utilize (audio)
utilized; utilizing

transitive verb

: to make use of : turn to practical use or account
I'm a great person for utilizing waste powerRobert Frost
utilizable adjective
utilization noun
utilizer noun
Choose the Right Synonym for utilize

use, employ, utilize mean to put into service especially to attain an end.

use implies availing oneself of something as a means or instrument to an end.

willing to use any means to achieve her ends

employ suggests the use of a person or thing that is available but idle, inactive, or disengaged.

looking for better ways to employ their skills

utilize may suggest the discovery of a new, profitable, or practical use for something.

an old wooden bucket utilized as a planter

Examples of utilize in a Sentence

Many of the library's resources are not utilized by townspeople. we must utilize all the tools at our disposal
Recent Examples on the Web According to Variety's report, sources close to the project say that the rebooted version of the game show would utilize celebrities in place of where the original series had children contestants. Natasha Dye, Peoplemag, 19 Mar. 2024 Conservation officer divers, utilizing sonar, recovered Hughes in six feet of water. The Enquirer, 18 Mar. 2024 New nonprofit to utilize AI to alleviate the global water crisis The top chemicals that were discharged into waterways were found to be nitrate compounds, manganese compounds and ammonia, the data shows. Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 16 Mar. 2024 While utilizing authentic Japanese instruments, the music takes a very modern approach that applies today’s technology and advanced sonic manipulation in ways that were impossible four decades ago. Jon Burlingame, Variety, 14 Mar. 2024 The Michelin Guide says Kammerer elevates delicacies like sea urchin while utilizing more humble ingredients, like seaweed harvested from the nearby coastline or lace lichen plucked from overhanging trees. Jenna Anderson, Sunset Magazine, 13 Mar. 2024 Whereas most pop songs utilize at least a modicum of gloss to conceal the thirstiest elements of the human condition, this thing sounded like it was shot full of caffeine and truth serum. Chris Richards, Washington Post, 13 Mar. 2024 To avoid Teifi becoming distressed, the vet who was also in attendance sedated him and crews proceeded to utilize road traffic collision and animal rescue equipment to release him from the cattle grid. Maureen MacKey, Fox News, 10 Mar. 2024 For players seeking to resolve their issues, Slots Empire utilizes seamless live chat integration, email, and a dedicated mobile number. Sponsored Content, The Mercury News, 8 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'utilize.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

French utiliser, from utile

First Known Use

1807, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of utilize was in 1807

Dictionary Entries Near utilize

Cite this Entry

“Utilize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/utilize. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

utilize

verb
uti·​lize ˈyüt-ᵊl-ˌīz How to pronounce utilize (audio)
utilized; utilizing
: to make use of especially for a certain job
utilization noun

More from Merriam-Webster on utilize

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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