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formalize

verb

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

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.
So, waiting to act only after the Fed's rate cut is formalized could be a costly mistake. Matt Richardson, CBS News, 8 Dec. 2025 The standoff was formalized on March 4, when the US implemented tariffs on a range of Canadian products, particularly aiming at the kneecaps of the nation’s steel, aluminum, automotive, and softwood lumber industries. Kelli María Korducki, thehustle.co, 5 Dec. 2025 Still, the response formalized the impression that Netflix is powerful enough to impact the justice system. Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 5 Dec. 2025 When a condition or symptom is repeatedly mentioned, a survey is then sent out to users, with responses, and then shared with relevant clinicians to formalize the discovery for research. Jason Phillips, USA Today, 4 Dec. 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 10 Dec. 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
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