monopolize

verb

mo·​nop·​o·​lize mə-ˈnä-pə-ˌlīz 

monopolized; monopolizing

transitive verb

: to get a monopoly of : assume complete possession or control of

monopolize a conversation

monopolization

mə-ˌnä-pə-lə-ˈzā-shən 

noun

monopolizer

mə-ˈnä-pə-ˌlī-zər 

noun

Synonyms of monopolize

• consume
• possess
• have

Examples of monopolize in a Sentence

He's always monopolizing the conversation.

The company has monopolized the market for computer operating systems.

One group monopolized the camping area, taking almost all of the campsites.

Recent Examples on the Web

Unlike bulky box fans, this sleek tower fan has a slim design that won't monopolize valuable floor space. — Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 23 June 2026

City officials said the new four-hour time limits at the two OB lots is about creating more turnover in those lots, where people often monopolize spots for many hours. — David Garrick, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 June 2026

In colonial India, the British monopolized the sale of salt, making this basic necessity unaffordable for many. — Zehra Jumabhoy, Artforum, 25 June 2026

The film will duke it out for the highly coveted family audience that Toy Story 5 is currently monopolizing. — Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 28 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1601, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for monopolize

• actualize
• antagonize
• apologise
• apologize
• capitalize
• categorize
• characterize
• commercialize
• conceptualize
• contrariwise
• criminalize
• decentralize

Kids Definition

monopolize

verb

mo·​nop·​o·​lize mə-ˈnäp-ə-ˌlīz 

monopolized; monopolizing

: to acquire or have complete control over

always monopolizing the conversation

monopolization

-ˌnäp-ə-lə-ˈzā-shən 

noun

monopolizer

-ˈnäp-ə-ˌlī-zər 

noun

Legal Definition

monopolize

transitive verb

mo·​nop·​o·​lize mə-ˈnä-pə-ˌlīz 

monopolized; monopolizing

: to get a monopoly of

monopolize an industry

monopolization

-ˌnä-pə-lə-ˈzā-shən 

noun