prioritize

verb

pri·​or·​i·​tize prī-ˈȯr-ə-ˌtīz How to pronounce prioritize (audio)
-ˈär-;
ˈprī-ə-rə-
prioritized; prioritizing

transitive verb

: to list or rate (projects, goals, etc.) in order of priority
prioritization
prī-ˌȯr-ə-tə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce prioritize (audio)
-är-;
ˌprī-ə-rə-
noun

Examples of prioritize in a Sentence

It's always difficult to prioritize work, school, and family. If you want to do your job efficiently, you have to learn to prioritize. The town council hopes to prioritize the bridge construction project at the next meeting.
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.
Experts suggest this is because consumers have been conditioned to prioritize low upfront prices, allowing companies to add extra fees later. Christopher Elliott, USA Today, 21 Oct. 2025 Otherwise, remember that a coat closet should prioritize hanging items first. Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Oct. 2025 Class members who submit valid claims will receive funds from the settlement, with the distribution formula prioritizing those who owned Wells Fargo stock during the period covered by the lawsuit. Chase Jordan, Charlotte Observer, 21 Oct. 2025 However, Takaichi appears unlikely to prioritize issues of gender equality. NPR, 21 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for prioritize

Word History

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of prioritize was in 1961

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Prioritize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prioritize. Accessed 22 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on prioritize

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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