energize

verb

en·​er·​gize ˈe-nər-ˌjīz How to pronounce energize (audio)
energized; energizing

transitive verb

1
: to make energetic, vigorous, or active
energized by the coach's pep talk
2
: to impart energy to
sunlight energizes the chemical reactions
3
: to apply voltage to

intransitive verb

: to put forth energy : act
energization noun
energizer noun

Examples of energize in a Sentence

His rousing speech energized the crowd. You'll feel more energized after a bit of exercise.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The steady addition of new techniques—linear perspective, for space; aerial perspective, for distance; anatomical precision—meant that, even if philosophy and medicine remained static, painting was energized by a powerful sense of technological progress. Adam Gopnik, New Yorker, 28 July 2025 We're energized by the level of excitement Trailborn has continued to receive from both investors and guests alike. Roger Sands, Forbes.com, 23 July 2025 You’re exhausted in the morning and energized by the afternoon. Kelly Stiefel Arias, Kansas City Star, 23 July 2025 The defeat of the Islamic State in Kobani—with significant American air support—energized the PKK, which started a campaign of urban warfare and tried to take over cities in southeastern Turkey. Ragip Soylu, Time, 18 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for energize

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1865, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of energize was circa 1865

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Cite this Entry

“Energize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/energize. Accessed 1 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

energize

verb
en·​er·​gize ˈen-ər-ˌjīz How to pronounce energize (audio)
energized; energizing
1
: to put forth energy : act
2
a
: to give energy to
sunlight energizes the chemical reactions
b
: to make energetic
3
: to apply voltage to
energizer noun

More from Merriam-Webster on energize

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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