equalize

verb

equal·​ize ˈē-kwə-ˌlīz 

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

ˌē-kwə-lə-ˈzā-shən 

noun

Synonyms of equalize

• balance
• equate
• adjust
• compensate

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

The equalizing goal never materialized, despite heavy pressure from the Galaxy and seven extra minutes of stoppage time, leaving the Galaxy to deal with a 2-1 defeat at the hands of what was the worst team in the league. —Damian Calhoun, Daily News, 15 Mar. 2026

Coach Jonas Eidevall instructed Dudinha and Gabi Portilho to switch sides around the 64th minute, and that is when the Wave had their best opportunity to equalize. —Fernando Ramirez, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 Mar. 2026

That swing, at least for the moment, equalized things. —Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 15 Mar. 2026

Denver equalized in the 20th minute, but Sonis was soon sent off and Bay FC took control. —Harold Gutmann, Mercury News, 15 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1599, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Rhymes for equalize

• advertise
• aggrandize
• agonize
• alibis
• alkalies
• alkalis
• amortize
• amplifies
• analyse
• analyze
• anywise
• authorize

Kids Definition

equalize

verb

equal·​ize ˈē-kwə-ˌlīz 

equalized; equalizing

1

: to make equal

2

: to make uniform

especially : to distribute evenly

equalization

ˌē-kwə-lə-ˈzā-shən 

noun

equalizer

ˈē-kwə-ˌlī-zər

noun