socialize

verb

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

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 noun

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 Greektown is known for its vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars and clubs where people gather for live music, dancing and socializing. Susan Selasky, Detroit Free Press, 20 Apr. 2024 During a private dinner earlier this week, about 60 diners socialized, Grant says. Michael Deeds, Idaho Statesman, 18 Apr. 2024 Sweeney sees the metaverse more as a space for entertainment and socializing, in which games and experiences can be linked on one enormous platform. Anna Wiener, The New Yorker, 15 Apr. 2024 The pair were also spotted socializing with members of the royal family at Royal Ascot in the past two years. Kirsty Hatcher, Peoplemag, 10 Apr. 2024 Although the majority of dog owners are responsible and socialize and train their pets, not all of them do so, and the result can be tragic. Jeanne Phillips, The Mercury News, 4 Apr. 2024 Whether in the interview scenes or in the flashbacks, his hushed intensity suggests a fractured man-child who was never properly socialized. Tim Grierson, Los Angeles Times, 29 Mar. 2024 Accept invitations to schmooze and socialize with others. Georgia Nicols, The Denver Post, 5 Apr. 2024 The night market is influenced by the open-air bazaars found in numerous parts of Asia, where the community gathers for entertainment, to socialize and to taste various foods and beverages. The San Diego Union-Tribune Staff, San Diego Union-Tribune, 3 Apr. 2024

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

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

Dictionary Entries Near socialize

Cite this Entry

“Socialize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/socialize. Accessed 23 Apr. 2024.

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 noun
socializer noun

Medical Definition

socialize

transitive verb
so·​cial·​ize
variants also British socialise
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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!