formalize

for·mal·ize

verb \ˈfȯr-mə-ˌlīz\

for·mal·izedfor·mal·iz·ing

Definition of FORMALIZE

transitive verb

1

: to give a certain or definite form to : shape

2

a : to make formal b : to give formal status or approval to

— for·mal·iz·able \-ˌlī-zə-bəl\ adjective

— for·mal·i·za·tion \ˌfȯr-mə-lə-ˈzā-shən\ noun

— for·mal·iz·er \ˈfȯr-mə-ˌlī-zər\ noun

Examples of FORMALIZE

1. The company has formalized its hiring practices.
2. Congress formalized the policy by making it law.

First Known Use of FORMALIZE

1646

Related to FORMALIZE

Synonyms: standardize, homogenize, normalize, regularize

Antonyms: decline, deny, disallow, disapprove, negative, reject, turn down, veto

Related Words: codify, marshal (also marshall), methodize, order, organize, systematize, systemize; average, equalize, even; square; accredit, certify; control, govern, regulate, rule; conciliate, conform, coordinate, harmonize, integrate, reconcile, synthesize

Near Antonyms: customize, individualize, tailor

see all synonyms and antonyms

[+]more[-]hide