contextualize

verb

con·​tex·​tu·​al·​ize kən-ˈteks-chə-wə-ˌlīz 

-chə-ˌlīz,

-chü-ə-

contextualized; contextualizing

transitive verb

: to place (something, such as a word or activity) in a context

When the rebellion is historically contextualized, it becomes clear that there were many factors that contributed to it.

contextualization

kən-ˌteks-ch(ə-w)ə-lə-ˈzā-shən 

-chü-ə-lə-

noun

Examples of contextualize in a Sentence

When the rebellion is historically contextualized, it becomes clear that there were many factors contributing to it.

Recent Examples on the Web

These objects that pre-date the arrival of Europeans to the region help contextualize the land’s long history and its use by Indigenous people. —Ella Jeffries, Smithsonian Magazine, 14 Mar. 2025

Future findings could help contextualize the individual’s living conditions, cultural beliefs, and the medical practices in use when this person was alive . —Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 13 Mar. 2025

This step contextualizes feedback, increasing its relevance and reducing defensiveness. —Sandro Da Silva, Forbes, 11 Mar. 2025

Wilkinson also studied the significant political events Didion wrote about in order to contextualize the progression of her work. —Abigail Lee, Variety, 11 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

contextual + -ize

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for contextualize

• industrialize
• materialise
• materialize
• memorialize
• microenterprise
• overemphasize
• particularize
• revolutionise
• revolutionize
• actualize
• antagonize
• apologise