Search Dictionary
Definition of utilize

utilize

/ˈjuːtəlaɪz/
(UK: utilise)
u · ti · lize
Adjective:utilizable
•
Past Simple:utilized
•
Past Participle:utilized
•
Present Participle:utilizing
JUMP TO:

utilize Lexical Profile

utilize Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To make practical and effective use of something, especially by finding a profitable or new purpose for a resource not originally intended for that role.

Example

"The engineering team utilized captured waste heat from the server room to warm the adjacent office building."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for utilize
Antonyms
View all antonyms for utilize

Word Nuance & Usage

While often treated as a formal synonym for 'use,' style guides recommend reserving 'utilize' for turning something to a new, profitable, or unexpected practical purpose rather than simple everyday usage.

• Rhymes for utilize

• Nearby Words

utility
utilizable
utilization
utilize
utilizer
utmost
utopia

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 19th century from French utiliser, which derives from Italian utilizzare, from Latin utilis ('useful'), ultimately from uti ('to use').

Cite this Entry

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