formalize

verb

for·​mal·​ize ˈfȯr-mə-ˌlīz How to pronounce formalize (audio)
formalized; formalizing

transitive verb

1
: to give a certain or definite form to : shape
2
a
: to make formal
b
: to give formal status or approval to
formalizable adjective
formalization noun
formalizer noun

Examples of formalize in a Sentence

The company has formalized its hiring practices. Congress formalized the policy by making it law.
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 new title formalizes her longstanding contributions to Downtown’s catalog growth through dealmaking and business development initiatives. Thania Garcia, Variety, 12 May 2025 Graphic: Joe Murphy / NBC News The longest took place in the 13th century, before conclaves were formalized, when the process that eventually elected Pope Gregory X started in 1268 and ended in 1271. Joe Murphy, NBC news, 8 May 2025 In international waters, the process is governed by the International Seabed Authority, which has been trying to develop a mining code since 2021 but has yet to formalize one. Laura Paddison, CNN Money, 8 May 2025 First awarded in 1922 and formalized in 1935, The Drama League Awards are the oldest theatrical honors in America. Greg Evans, Deadline, 22 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for formalize

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of formalize was in 1646

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Formalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/formalize. Accessed 18 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

formalize

verb
for·​mal·​ize ˈfȯr-mə-ˌlīz How to pronounce formalize (audio)
formalized; formalizing
1
: to make formal
2
: to give formal rank or approval to
formalization noun
formalizer noun

More from Merriam-Webster on formalize

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!