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

Turning a visual image into a story that can be filed away helps the brain contextualize information. —Robyn Koslowitz, Parents, 19 Sep. 2025

Unlock enterprise-wide intelligence for long-term ROI For companies that go a step further to deeply ingrain AI implementation, AI contextualizes and integrates sustainability data across ERP systems to inform decisions on risk, resilience, and opportunity. —Sophia Mendelsohn, Forbes.com, 17 Sep. 2025

To contextualize this, there is more content on Wikipedia about Antarctica than there is on the entire continent of Africa. —Moky Makura, semafor.com, 15 Sep. 2025

The best researchers have the most nuanced discussions that contextualize this uncertainty. —Brendan Harley, Twin Cities, 11 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

contextual + -ize

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for contextualize

• industrialize
• materialise
• materialize
• memorialize
• microenterprise
• overemphasize
• particularize
• revolutionise
• revolutionize
• actualize
• antagonize
• apologise