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

In fact, in many ways, the easiest way to contextualize Busch’s career is to compare his to Earnhardt’s. —Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 6 June 2026

Sensormatic Solutions, which specializes in shrink visibility by using data to show brands which products have gone missing and when, said adding their tags and labels at the source could help retailers better contextualize inventory loss. —Roy Stephen Canivel, Footwear News, 3 June 2026

Instead, they must be contextualized. —Kara Jillian Brown, InStyle, 3 June 2026

The system now finds vulnerabilities faster than anyone can enrich them, contextualize them, rank them or fix them. —Yonesy Nunez, Forbes.com, 1 June 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