contextualize

verb

con·​tex·​tu·​al·​ize kən-ˈteks-chə-wə-ˌlīz How to pronounce contextualize (audio)
-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 noun

Example Sentences

When the rebellion is historically contextualized, it becomes clear that there were many factors contributing to it.
Recent Examples on the Web So, once again, Team Israel is relying on an old biblical parable to contextualize its looming confrontations. David Waldstein, New York Times, 10 Mar. 2023 The goal of Black Film Archive is to re-contextualize these moments. Uwa Ede-osifo, NBC News, 14 Feb. 2023 When the software is deployed into production, observability is needed to contextualize the monitoring of the entire stack. Janakiram Msv, Forbes, 14 Feb. 2023 Additionally, onscreen depictions of Iran have taken on new significance as the world looks to artists to contextualize current uprisings. Armani Syed, Time, 21 Dec. 2022 The movie tries to contextualize Harding's very difficult life and the fallout from her decisions. Aimée Lutkin, ELLE, 1 Feb. 2023 If Othram uncovers a lead, the company shares it with police for investigators to contextualize in the criminal investigation. Samah Assad, CBS News, 30 Jan. 2023 Once a relationship is established, design curated one-on-one experiences that contextualize a brand, its products, and the people behind it. Outside Online, 21 Nov. 2022 The poet that could contextualize her life has yet to be born. Naledi Ushe, USA TODAY, 4 Oct. 2022 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'contextualize.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

Etymology

contextual + -ize

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of contextualize was in 1934

Dictionary Entries Near contextualize

Cite this Entry

“Contextualize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/contextualize. Accessed 21 Mar. 2023.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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