underutilize

verb

un·​der·​uti·​lize ˌən-dər-ˈyü-tə-ˌlīz How to pronounce underutilize (audio)
underutilized; underutilizing; underutilizes

transitive verb

: to utilize less than fully or below the potential use

Examples of underutilize 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.
But in arguably the biggest failure of Malone’s coaching tenure — at least with the benefit of hindsight — the 7-footer was painfully underutilized. Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 20 Oct. 2025 The word ‘intentional’ is overused, and the act of being intentional is underutilized. Bo Howard, Rolling Stone, 17 Oct. 2025 In a statement, a GM spokesman said the filing this week noting the loss was in response to the company's having to adjust the valuation of EV assets that have proven underutilized or not used at all, per accounting rules. Rob Wile, NBC news, 16 Oct. 2025 Ferrera’s role is fine but underutilized. Brian Truitt, USA Today, 2 Oct. 2025 And if anything, MAID is underutilized. Teri Sforza, Oc Register, 17 Sep. 2025 The improved defense with several free-agent additions struggled mightily while the offense heavily underutilized new rookie weapons in TreVeyon Henderson, Efton Chism III (inactive) and Kyle Williams. Tim Crowley, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 Sep. 2025 Walker felt somewhat underutilized this past season. Rosa Escandon, Forbes.com, 3 Sep. 2025 Fowler too often plays underwritten side characters, underutilizing his comedic potential. Jourdain Searles, The Hollywood Reporter, 17 Mar. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1951, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of underutilize was in 1951

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Underutilize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/underutilize. Accessed 5 Nov. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!