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.
The redesign has prioritized hurricane-resilient research facilities and greenhouses, and smart stormwater management. Kelsey Glennon, Southern Living, 19 July 2025 Based in Calgary, where extreme weather demands durable, energy-efficient solutions, the construction company prioritizes high-performance construction materials designed to reduce energy use and long-term environmental impact. Connie Etemadi, USA Today, 19 July 2025 The commission prioritizes maintaining low-cost access to the coast, as David Garrick of The San Diego Union-Tribune has noted. Michael Smolens, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 July 2025 Because foam had struck shuttles on previous flights without killing anyone, NASA had not prioritized finding an answer to the recurring problem. Alice George, Smithsonian Magazine, 18 July 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

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Cite this Entry

“Prioritize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prioritize. Accessed 24 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on prioritize

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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