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

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
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Rather than functioning as a traditional career overview, the documentary aims to contextualize Earth, Wind & Fire’s music within the broader cultural and social movements that surrounded it. Charlie Vargas, Oc Register, 8 Jan. 2026 Research helps contextualize that experience. Maria Williams, USA Today, 8 Jan. 2026 The daughter of a South African mother who grew up in a white town in the Northeast, Clemmons uses her frequent travels to Johannesburg to contextualize the promises of freedom, the realities of entrenched inequalities, and consequences of violence. Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 6 Jan. 2026 Myles Garrett’s 23rd sack was legitimate, but this record is difficult to contextualize. Mike Sando, New York Times, 5 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for contextualize

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Contextualize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/contextualize. Accessed 12 Jan. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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