socialize

verb

so·​cial·​ize ˈsō-shə-ˌlīz 

socialized; socializing

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 

noun

Synonyms

• associate
• fraternize
• go out
• hobnob
• mingle
• mix
• step out

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

Jennifer Mundt, assistant professor of sleep medicine Life with narcolepsy: People with the sleep disorder can have trouble socializing, working at a job, driving a car or even developing close relationships. —Daniel Wine, CNN, 5 Nov. 2024

Diwali, a five-day festival of lights (Oct. 29-Nov. 3), symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and is celebrated by socializing, exchanging gifts, and performing rituals. —Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 31 Oct. 2024

What people post on social media might be considered boastful, or celebratory depending on how an individual has been socialized. —Ellen Choi, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024

In fact, this is a pleasant day to socialize, enjoy sports events and fun activities with kids. —Georgia Nicols, The Denver Post, 7 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Kids Definition

socialize

verb

so·​cial·​ize ˈsō-shə-ˌlīz 

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 

noun

socializer

ˈsō-shə-ˌlī-zər 

noun

Medical Definition

socialize

transitive verb

so·​cial·​ize

variants also British socialise

ˈsō-shə-ˌlīz 

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