formalize

verb

for·​mal·​ize ˈfȯr-mə-ˌlīz How to pronounce formalize (audio)
formalized; formalizing

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
formalizable adjective
formalization noun
formalizer noun

Examples of formalize in a Sentence

The company has formalized its hiring practices. Congress formalized the policy by making it law.
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.
Some organizations formalize this by establishing cross-functional councils or task forces that oversee AI governance. Luiz Domingos, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2025 The department is renegotiating an agreement with Amtrak and the Union Station Redevelopment Corporation to allow the federal agency to manage the station, with the change being formalized in September. Brett Samuels, The Hill, 27 Aug. 2025 Many schools in South Korea already have their own restrictions for smartphone use, which the bill now formalizes. Reuters, NBC news, 27 Aug. 2025 That recognition is due to be formalized at the United Nations General Assembly in September. Robert Birsel shane Croucher amira El-Fekki‎, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for formalize

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of formalize was in 1646

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Cite this Entry

“Formalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/formalize. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

formalize

verb
for·​mal·​ize ˈfȯr-mə-ˌlīz How to pronounce formalize (audio)
formalized; formalizing
1
: to make formal
2
: to give formal rank or approval to
formalization noun
formalizer noun

More from Merriam-Webster on formalize

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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