contextualize

verb

con·​tex·​tu·​al·​ize kən-ˈteks-chə-wə-ˌlīz 

-chə-ˌlīz, 

-chü-ə-

contextualized; contextualizing

transitive verb

: to place (something, such as a word or activity) in a context

When the rebellion is historically contextualized, it becomes clear that there were many factors that contributed to it.

contextualization

kən-ˌteks-ch(ə-w)ə-lə-ˈzā-shən 

-chü-ə-lə-

noun

Examples of contextualize in a Sentence

When the rebellion is historically contextualized, it becomes clear that there were many factors contributing to it.

Recent Examples on the Web

Future stable isotope examinations could also better contextualize the family’s nutritional issues. — Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 17 July 2026

Samantha Morton’s enchantress Circe turns Odysseus’ men into pigs, though the film contextualizes her within the human casualties of war. — Nick Romano, Entertainment Weekly, 17 July 2026

Neither data-center operators nor utilities provide much insight; what public information exists can be contextualized, recontextualized, and distorted to suggest basically anything. — Matteo Wong, The Atlantic, 16 July 2026

Dimon contextualized the frustration of lower-income families, noting that, compared with the 1960s and 1970s, standards of living have improved across the board. — Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 15 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

contextual + -ize

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for contextualize

• actualize
• antagonize
• apologise
• apologize
• capitalize
• categorize
• characterize
• commercialize
• conceptualize
• contrariwise
• criminalize
• decentralize