socialize

verb

so·​cial·​ize ˈsō-shə-ˌlīz How to pronounce socialize (audio)
socialized; socializing
Synonyms of socialize

transitive verb

1
: to make social
especially : to fit or train for a social environment
2
a
: to constitute on a socialistic basis
socialize industry
b
: to adapt to social needs or uses
3
: to organize group participation in
socialize a recitation

intransitive verb

: to participate actively in a social group
socializer
ˈsō-shə-ˌlī-zər How to pronounce socialize (audio)
noun

Synonyms of socialize

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Examples of socialize in a Sentence

She danced and socialized at the party. he likes to socialize with his coworkers after work ends
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.
Growing up, Harp spent most of her time with adults, especially her mother, and would rarely socialize with her peers, her brother recalled. — Hannah Fry, Los Angeles Times, 30 Aug. 2026 Care teams monitored them continuously for signs of adjustment, including eating regularly, exploring their habitats and socializing with each other. — Thao Nguyen, USA Today, 28 Aug. 2026 Socialettes make videos, model for photos advertising drinks, socialize with customers and even livestream on TikTok during business hours. — Shannon Tyler, Idaho Statesman, 28 Aug. 2026 In the first half hour there will be time to socialize, network, visit interest group displays, participate in the raffle, and enjoy refreshments, a news release stated. — News Release, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for socialize

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of socialize was in 1765

Rhymes for socialize

See All Rhymes for socialize

Browse Nearby Words

socialization
socialize
socialized medicine
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Socialize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/socialize. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

socialize

verb
so·​cial·​ize ˈsō-shə-ˌlīz How to pronounce socialize (audio)
socialized; socializing
1
: to make social
especially : to make fit for a social environment
2
: to take part in social activities
socializing with friends after work
socialization
ˌsōsh-(ə-)lə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce socialize (audio)
noun
socializer
ˈsō-shə-ˌlī-zər How to pronounce socialize (audio)
noun

Medical Definition

socialize

transitive verb
so·​cial·​ize
variants also British socialise
ˈsō-shə-ˌlīz How to pronounce socialize (audio)
socialized also British socialised; socializing also British socialising
: to make social
especially : to fit or train for society or a social environment
children are socialized according to a given cultural pattern —H. A. Murray & C. K. Kluckhohn
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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