utilize

verb

uti·​lize ˈyü-tə-ˌlīz 

utilized; utilizing

transitive verb

: to make use of : turn to practical use or account

… I'm a great person for utilizing waste power.

—Robert Frost

utilizable

ˈyü-tə-ˌlī-zə-bəl 

adjective

utilization

ˌyü-tə-lə-ˈzā-shən 

noun

utilizer

ˈyü-tə-ˌlī-zər 

noun

Synonyms of utilize

• use
• apply
• exploit
• employ

Choose the Right Synonym for utilize

use, employ, utilize mean to put into service especially to attain an end.

use implies availing oneself of something as a means or instrument to an end.

willing to use any means to achieve her ends

employ suggests the use of a person or thing that is available but idle, inactive, or disengaged.

looking for better ways to employ their skills

utilize may suggest the discovery of a new, profitable, or practical use for something.

an old wooden bucket utilized as a planter

Examples of utilize in a Sentence

Many of the library's resources are not utilized by townspeople.

we must utilize all the tools at our disposal

Recent Examples on the Web

Demand planning capabilities on the Blue Yonder Platform utilize patented algorithms and advanced machine learning models to ensure that demand forecasting is not only highly accurate, but reliable. — Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 13 Aug. 2026

Though the 34 cameras have been mounted at intersections throughout the city for several years, there's a new wave of suspicion about them and the way they're utilized by law enforcement. — Nicole Comstock, CBS News, 12 Aug. 2026

Residents have already started commenting on the Facebook video with questions about power outages, utilizing the Indiana National Guard to support clean up efforts and water connections. — Maya Wilkins, Chicago Tribune, 12 Aug. 2026

The manager is evaluating tactical options, including potentially utilizing Gordon or Yamal as a false nine, especially if no new forwards are signed to replace Torres and Lewandowski. — Tom Sanderson, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

French utiliser, from utile

First Known Use

1807, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for utilize

• advertise
• aggrandize
• alibis
• alkalies
• alkalis
• amortize
• amplifies
• analyse
• analyze
• anywise
• authorize
• butterflies

Kids Definition

utilize

verb

uti·​lize ˈyüt-ᵊl-ˌīz 

utilized; utilizing

: to make use of especially for a certain job

utilization

ˌyüt-ᵊl-ə-ˈzā-shən 

noun