variants
also British realise
realizes; realized; realizing
1
: to understand or become aware of (something)
They did not realize the risk/danger that was involved.
He finally realized the scope of the problem.
I realize (that) this is an unusual situation.
She realizes how much things have changed.
Do you realize how difficult that stunt is?
You just have to realize that you can't always get what you want.
She slowly realized what he was trying to say.
2
: to cause (something) to become real
—usually used as (be) realized
Our worst fears have been realized. [=the things that we most feared have actually happened]
3
formal
: to achieve (something, such as a goal, dream, etc.)
He realized a lifelong dream/goal by winning an Olympic medal.
He finally realized his ambition to start his own business.
She hasn't yet realized her potential as a golfer. [=she hasn't become as good as she can be]
4
formal
: to earn or get (money) by sale or effort
We can realize a profit by selling the stock.
The furniture of the estate realized $10,000 at the auction.
Cite this Entry
“Realize.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/realize. Accessed 22 Jun. 2026.
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