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Definition of categorize

categorize

/ˈkæt.ə.ɡə.raɪz/
(UK: categorise)
cat · e · go · rize
Adjective:categorizable
•
Past Simple:categorized
•
Past Participle:categorized
•
Present Participle:categorizing
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categorize Lexical Profile

categorize Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To place into a particular class or group based on shared characteristics.

Example

"The librarian helped the students categorize the reference books by historical period."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for categorize

• Nearby Words

categorically
categorizable
categorization
categorize
category
cater
caterer

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the late 16th century from the noun 'category' plus the verbal suffix '-ize'. 'Category' ultimately derives from Ancient Greek 'kategoria' (accusation, assertion, or predicate), from 'kategorein' (to speak against or assert in a public assembly).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Categorize. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/categorize
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