Search Dictionary
Definition of formalize

formalize

/ˈfɔːrməlaɪz/
(UK: formalise)
for · mal · ize
Adverb:formally
•
Adjective:formal
•
Past Simple:formalized
•
Past Participle:formalized
•
Present Participle:formalizing
JUMP TO:

formalize Lexical Profile

formalize Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To give legal or official status to an agreement, relationship, or procedure.

Example

"The two universities signed a memorandum of understanding to formalize their research partnership."

2

To give a definite structure, clear rules, or systematic form to a concept, process, or mathematical theory.

Example

"The committee worked for months to formalize the new evaluation criteria for faculty promotions."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for formalize
Antonyms
View all antonyms for formalize

• Rhymes for formalize

• Nearby Words

formal
formaldehyde
formality
formalize
formally
formalness
format

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the late 16th century, the word combines the adjective 'formal' (from Latin formalis, meaning 'relating to form or rules') with the verb-forming suffix '-ize'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Formalize. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/formalize
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.