utilize

verb

uti·​lize ˈyü-tə-ˌlīz 

utilized; utilizing

transitive verb

: to make use of : turn to practical use or account

I'm a great person for utilizing waste power

—Robert Frost

utilizable

ˈyü-tə-ˌlī-zə-bəl 

adjective

utilization

ˌyü-tə-lə-ˈzā-shən 

noun

utilizer

ˈyü-tə-ˌlī-zər 

noun

Synonyms

• apply
• employ
• exercise
• exploit
• harness
• operate
• use

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

European countries also have differing views on utilizing these profits, with some preferring direct spending on weapons. —Selina Wang, ABC News, 12 June 2024

Many young voters utilize TikTok to receive their news, according to a recent Pew Research study, which found that one-third of American adults under 30 regularly scroll the app for news. —Rebecca Schneid, TIME, 2 June 2024

This Earth sign can utilize the smallest details if that means weaving together the threads of everyday life with precision, and structure. —Valerie Mesa, Peoplemag, 31 May 2024

The new Map draws on more than 30 years of data, utilizing better technology. —Associated Pess, Orange County Register, 30 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

French utiliser, from utile

First Known Use

1807, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

utilize

verb

uti·​lize ˈyüt-ᵊl-ˌīz 

utilized; utilizing

: to make use of especially for a certain job

utilization

ˌyüt-ᵊl-ə-ˈzā-shən 

noun