compartmentalize

verb

com·​part·​men·​tal·​ize kəm-ˌpärt-ˈmen-tə-ˌlīz How to pronounce compartmentalize (audio)
ˌkäm-
compartmentalized; compartmentalizing
Synonyms of compartmentalize

transitive verb

: to separate into isolated compartments or categories
compartmentalization noun

Examples of compartmentalize in a Sentence

He compartmentalizes his life by keeping his job and his personal life separate. The company has compartmentalized its services.
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.
While some working Americans find relief in a work routine, others struggle to compartmentalize their grief. Jessica Guynn, USA Today, 14 June 2026 Fans could be seen dressing for the elements as well, choosing rugged materials like leather or cargo pants to compartmentalize belongings for the weekend. John Monaco, InStyle, 9 June 2026 The part that’s hard for me is actually not being in that space and compartmentalizing it. Katie Campione, Deadline, 6 June 2026 Waldorf’s job, treating critical patients in the intensive care unit, had taught her to compartmentalize, to stay cool under pressure. Kavitha Surana, CNN Money, 28 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for compartmentalize

Word History

First Known Use

1925, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of compartmentalize was in 1925

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Cite this Entry

“Compartmentalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/compartmentalize. Accessed 16 Jun. 2026.

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