socialize

verb

so·​cial·​ize ˈsō-shə-ˌlīz 

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

ˈsō-shə-ˌlī-zər 

noun

Synonyms of socialize

• mingle
• mix
• associate

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

Under its new management, Arlo Williamsburg captures its surrounding eclectic, artsy spirit, and is continuing to serve as a launchpad for all things local (especially for those who love to socialize). — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 July 2026

Running is not the only sport that is reshaping how Gen Z socialize. — Mustafa Qadri, CNN Money, 25 July 2026

Teenagers are socializing more with AI chatbots, raising concerns about the technology’s effect on mental health. — Queenie Wong, Los Angeles Times, 22 July 2026

There’s also a vibrant nightlife scene rife with outdoor markets and cafés great for socializing, and the high-speed train system connects you to many major cities throughout Europe, making travel easy. — Nina Kahn, Travel + Leisure, 21 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Rhymes for socialize

• advertise
• aggrandize
• alibis
• alkalies
• alkalis
• amortize
• amplifies
• analyse
• analyze
• anywise
• authorize
• butterflies

Kids Definition

socialize

verb

so·​cial·​ize ˈsō-shə-ˌlīz 

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

ˌsōsh-(ə-)lə-ˈzā-shən 

noun

socializer

ˈsō-shə-ˌlī-zər 

noun

Medical Definition

socialize

transitive verb

so·​cial·​ize

variants also British socialise

ˈsō-shə-ˌlīz 

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