utilize

verb

uti·​lize ˈyü-tə-ˌlīz How to pronounce utilize (audio)
utilized; utilizing

transitive verb

: to make use of : turn to practical use or account
I'm a great person for utilizing waste powerRobert Frost
utilizable adjective
utilization noun
utilizer noun
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Although the story is fictional, the movie does offer some insight into the highly secretive voting process the Roman Catholic Church utilizes to choose a new pontiff. Jade Walker, CNN Money, 24 Apr. 2025 Denim veteran Piero Turk plugged into his roots in Italian luxury with garments that utilized the comfort of stretch denim without fitting tight on the body. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 24 Apr. 2025 Green is a versatile player out of Marshall, and Gannon could utilize his speed and power to disrupt the pocket. 17. Fox News Staff, FOXNews.com, 24 Apr. 2025 The secret is that Costco utilizes only roasted almonds to yield a rich, somewhat sweet spread without any additives, including salt, sugar, or oils. Joey Skladany, Southern Living, 24 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for utilize

Word History

Etymology

French utiliser, from utile

First Known Use

1807, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of utilize was in 1807

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Utilize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/utilize. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

utilize

verb
uti·​lize ˈyüt-ᵊl-ˌīz How to pronounce utilize (audio)
utilized; utilizing
: to make use of especially for a certain job
utilization noun

More from Merriam-Webster on utilize

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