utilize

verb

uti·​lize ˈyü-tə-ˌlīz 

utilized; utilizing

transitive verb

: to make use of : turn to practical use or account

I'm a great person for utilizing waste power

—Robert Frost

utilizable

ˈyü-tə-ˌlī-zə-bəl 

adjective

utilization

ˌyü-tə-lə-ˈzā-shən 

noun

utilizer

ˈyü-tə-ˌlī-zər 

noun

Synonyms

• apply
• employ
• exercise
• exploit
• harness
• operate
• use

Choose the Right Synonym for utilize

use, employ, utilize mean to put into service especially to attain an end.

use implies availing oneself of something as a means or instrument to an end.

willing to use any means to achieve her ends

employ suggests the use of a person or thing that is available but idle, inactive, or disengaged.

looking for better ways to employ their skills

utilize may suggest the discovery of a new, profitable, or practical use for something.

an old wooden bucket utilized as a planter

Examples of utilize in a Sentence

Many of the library's resources are not utilized by townspeople.

we must utilize all the tools at our disposal

Recent Examples on the Web

Each bottle utilizes a blend of liquids from the 4, 5, 6, and 7-year barrels. —Erik Ofgang, Forbes, 8 Dec. 2024

The timeline for Carr's return is unknown, but New Orleans will utilize backups Haener and Spencer Rattler in the coming weeks. —Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 8 Dec. 2024

The investigation was conducted over several months, according to Ciccone, and uncovered a closed and private social media network utilized by Rutgers University students to buy and sell narcotics. —Stepheny Price, Fox News, 8 Dec. 2024

Mottershead also suggests looking to hallways and entryways to utilize color drenching. —Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

French utiliser, from utile

First Known Use

1807, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

utilize

verb

uti·​lize ˈyüt-ᵊl-ˌīz 

utilized; utilizing

: to make use of especially for a certain job

utilization

ˌyüt-ᵊl-ə-ˈzā-shən 

noun