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

Those opinions contextualize Trump’s early actions to cut back these policies. —Christian Paz, Vox, 2 May 2025

Heyden’s recent research, published in Human Relations, further contextualizes this challenge. —Benjamin Laker, Forbes.com, 24 Apr. 2025

Indeed, stories of their stunning inadequacies, from news outlets, NGOs, and foreign funders, helped to contextualize the Ebola outbreak, as well as the need for such a dramatic international response. —Mara Kardas-Nelson, The Dial, 8 Apr. 2025

Automation extends to the initial risk analysis, where the system can contextualize the kind of issues and how to best proceed. —Hessie Jones, Forbes, 20 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