incentivize

verb

in·​cen·​tiv·​ize in-ˈsen-tə-ˌvīz How to pronounce incentivize (audio)
incentivized; incentivizing

transitive verb

: to provide with an incentive
would incentivize employees with stock options

Examples of incentivize in a Sentence

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.
There’s also a new tax break to incentivize mining metallurgical coal, now to be considered a strategic mineral. Alan Ohnsman, Forbes.com, 7 July 2025 And in a bid to incentivize more chipmaking in America, the legislation would enhance tax credits for semiconductor firms building manufacturing facilities in the United States. Matt Egan, CNN Money, 3 July 2025 Some of these changes came after the COVID-19 pandemic, when the federal government incentivized keeping people on Medicaid. Jessie Balmert, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025 Produce also spoils so quickly that customs officials are incentivized to perform their inspections quickly, analysis shows. Michael Loria, USA Today, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for incentivize

Word History

First Known Use

1960, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of incentivize was in 1960

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Cite this Entry

“Incentivize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/incentivize. Accessed 12 Jul. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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