formalize

for·mal·ize

transitive verb \ˈfȯr-mə-ˌlīz\

for·mal·izedfor·mal·iz·ing

Definition of FORMALIZE

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