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.
One company that handles this especially well is the Danaher Corporation, whose operating model has been internalized and formalized in the Danaher Business System, which, according to Danaher’s web site, is the key to the conglomerate’s success. Julia Dhar, Forbes, 21 Nov. 2024 Once he was discharged, the two formalized their split in December 2016. Esther Kang, People.com, 19 Nov. 2024 The Board of Carroll County Commissioners at its meeting Thursday formalized its unanimous opposition. Sherry Greenfield, Baltimore Sun, 15 Nov. 2024 The agreement would be formalized at the beginning of the next Congress in January, when members rewrite their own rules. Riley Beggin, USA TODAY, 14 Nov. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near formalize

Cite this Entry

“Formalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/formalize. Accessed 13 Dec. 2024.

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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