equalize

verb

equal·​ize ˈē-kwə-ˌlīz How to pronounce equalize (audio)
equalized; equalizing

transitive verb

1
: to make equal
2
a
: to compensate for
b
: to make uniform
especially : to distribute evenly or uniformly
equalize the tax burden
c
: to adjust or correct the frequency characteristics of (an electronic signal) by restoring to their original level high frequencies that have been attenuated

intransitive verb

chiefly British : to tie the score
equalization noun

Examples of equalize in a Sentence

They are hoping to equalize pay for workers with similar jobs. Educational opportunities have not yet equalized. trying to equalize the pressure
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.
Son Heung-Min opened the scoring with a rocket in the first half, then Paxten Aaronson opened his Rapids account to equalize in the 62nd minute. Braidon Nourse, Denver Post, 19 Oct. 2025 The Revolution held a 1-0 lead for much of the match before Chicago equalized in the 82nd minute. Julian Cardillo, Boston Herald, 18 Oct. 2025 However, his two goals on Tuesday weren’t enough to secure a win for his nation, with Magyars midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai equalizing in stoppage time in the 91st minute. Ben Church, CNN Money, 15 Oct. 2025 After an early goal from Lyonnes, who are eight-time Champions League winners and 18-time French league title holders, PSG equalized with a converted penalty in the 33rd minute to level the two sides heading into halftime. Tamerra Griffin, New York Times, 28 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for equalize

Word History

First Known Use

1599, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of equalize was in 1599

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Equalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/equalize. Accessed 26 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

equalize

verb
equal·​ize ˈē-kwə-ˌlīz How to pronounce equalize (audio)
equalized; equalizing
1
: to make equal
2
: to make uniform
especially : to distribute evenly
equalization noun
equalizer
ˈē-kwə-ˌlī-zər
noun

More from Merriam-Webster on equalize

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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