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

Still, GMs also have to contextualize her skills with her age relative to her competition. —Sabreena Merchant, New York Times, 27 Mar. 2025

The project is an extension of a decades-long effort to share and contextualize these early films. —Peter Debruge, Variety, 19 Mar. 2025

Spotify launched its Loud and Clear initiative back in 2021 in an effort to increase transparency with artists and contextualize how the streaming service pays for music. —Ethan Millman, The Hollywood Reporter, 11 Mar. 2025

Cronin and Scoble succeed in not only explaining but contextualizing the shift from screens to the world around us. —Charlie Fink, Forbes, 1 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