What does globalize mean?
Globalize means to make something worldwide or to develop international reach. The verb is used when a business expands its operations across countries, when a product or service is introduced to international audiences, or when an organization adopts a worldwide perspective. It can also describe a process of increasing cross-border connection, as in the globalization of trade, media, and culture. Globalize commonly appears in formal discussions of economics, politics, business, education, and international relations, although it is also used in ordinary writing about food, entertainment, and travel. The related noun globalization is especially prominent in academic and public debate, while globalized is frequently used as an adjective, as in globalized markets or a globalized economy. The word reflects the long history of people imagining the world as a single interconnected sphere, while its modern use reflects the practical impact of international communication, transportation, and commerce.
verbTo make something global or extend its activity, influence, or operation worldwide. It can also refer to the process of becoming internationally interconnected or operating across national borders.
- To make a product, service, organization, or system operate worldwide.
- To become internationally interconnected or spread across national borders.
"The company expanded rapidly after deciding to globalize its supply chain."
"Streaming platforms have helped globalize access to independent films."
"Small businesses are using digital tools to globalize without opening offices abroad."
Globalize turns the ancient idea of the globe into a modern verb: making something worldwide.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does globalize come from?
Globalize was formed in English from global plus the suffix -ize. Global derives from Latin globalis, which was based on globus, meaning a globe or ball, while -ize comes from a Greek verbal suffix meaning to make or cause to become. The verb developed during the modern period as international trade, communication, and political cooperation made worldwide activity increasingly important. Its relatives globalism and globality share the same global root and reflect related ideas about the world as a whole.
Related word forms
How globalize is actually used
Globalize is standard in both British and American English, with globalise as the British spelling. It is especially common in discussions of business, economics, politics, culture, and education. The related noun globalization and adjective globalized are often more common than the verb in formal writing.
Easily confused with globalize
Global is an adjective meaning worldwide or involving the whole world, while globalize is a verb meaning to make something worldwide or extend its operation internationally.