fictionalize

verb

fic·​tion·​al·​ize ˈfik-sh(ə-)nə-ˌlīz How to pronounce fictionalize (audio)
fictionalized; fictionalizing

transitive verb

: to make into or treat in the manner of fiction
fictionalize a biography
fictionalization noun

Examples of fictionalize in a Sentence

The book is a fictionalized account of their travels. Her books are based in fact, but she fictionalizes many of the events.
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.
Instead, the judge found that the state essentially fictionalized a story of chaos and turmoil in the workplace as a result of the post. Scott Maxwell, Sun Sentinel, 28 May 2026 The film fictionalized the Rockford Peaches’ story—but the league itself had already done the unbelievable. Encyclopedia Britannica, 26 May 2026 The film is simultaneously unadorned and deeply oppressive, staying close to the historical record (while fictionalizing the circumstances of Moulin’s eventual death, or martyrdom) in a fashion that offers little perspective, beyond a humanist call-to-arms and appeal toward remembrance. David Katz, IndieWire, 18 May 2026 The story is so famously fictionalized—we’re playing versions of these characters that aren’t biographically accurate. Lisa Wong MacAbasco, Vogue, 11 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for fictionalize

Word History

Etymology

fictional + -ize

First Known Use

1918, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fictionalize was in 1918

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fictionalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fictionalize. Accessed 31 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

fictionalize

verb
fic·​tion·​al·​ize ˈfik-shnə-līz How to pronounce fictionalize (audio)
-shən-ᵊl-īz
fictionalized; fictionalizing
: to make into fiction
fictionalize a biography
fictionalization noun
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