summarize

verb

sum·​ma·​rize ˈsə-mə-ˌrīz 

summarized; summarizing

transitive verb

: to tell in or reduce to a summary

intransitive verb

: to make a summary

summarizable

ˌsə-mə-ˈrī-zə-bəl 

adjective

summarizer noun

Synonyms

• abstract
• boil down
• brief
• digest
• encapsulate
• epitomize
• outline
• recap
• recapitulate
• reprise
• sum up
• synopsize
• wrap up

Examples of summarize in a Sentence

I would like to take a moment to summarize the facts that I presented earlier.

He summarized by saying we needed better planning and implementation.

To summarize, we need better schools.

Recent Examples on the Web

Or, have another model summarize text and take down meeting minutes. —Stackcommerce Team (sponsored), PCMAG, 30 Jan. 2025

They are tasked with providing independent advice to the EPA's administrator, summarizing the best available science to help inform the agency's policy. —Chrissa McFarlane, Forbes, 29 Jan. 2025

Should the judges agree to close the case, a major impediment to the public release of Smith's report summarizing the classified documents investigation would be eliminated. —Melissa Quinn, CBS News, 29 Jan. 2025

Justice Brett Kavanaugh summarized that concern from Congress in the Supreme Court hearing earlier this month over TikTok’s challenge to the sale-or-ban law, which the court shot down. —Clare Duffy, CNN, 25 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1832, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Kids Definition

summarize

verb

sum·​ma·​rize ˈsəm-ə-ˌrīz 

summarized; summarizing

1

: to tell in or reduce to a summary

2

: to make a summary

summarizable

ˌsəm-ə-ˈrī-zə-bəl 

adjective

summarizer noun