verb
socialize
SOH-shuh-lyz
verb
1
To spend time with others in a friendly, informal way.
"They like to socialize with neighbors on weekends."
"It's hard to socialize with coworkers when you work remotely."
2
To teach someone, often without them realizing it, the norms and behavior expected in a society.
"Puppies need to be socialized early so they get used to people."
3
To bring something under collective or state ownership.
"The new government moved to socialize the coal industry."
How to Use Socialize
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo mix with people casually, or to train someone/something to fit into a social group.
UK vs US
Spelled "socialise" in British English.
Common pairings
socialize with friends
socialize a puppy
Word Forms
socialized past tense, socializes singular
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They like to _____ with neighbors on weekends.
Etymology
From social + -ize.