What does industrialise mean?
Industrialise means to develop or reorganize an economy, region, or system through industry, especially manufacturing and large-scale production. Historically, it often referred to the shift from an agrarian or craft-based society toward mechanized factory production. In modern usage, the verb can describe regional development, the expansion of industrial activity, or the application of standardized and efficient methods to production. The term frequently carries historical associations with urbanization, technological change, mass employment, and major environmental and social consequences. It is also used more narrowly when describing the conversion of an activity into an organized industrial process. British English commonly uses the -ise spelling, whereas American English generally uses -ize. As a noun, the related concept is industrialisation, the process by which a society or economy develops industrial production.
To develop an area or economy through industry, especially manufacturing and large-scale production.
"New infrastructure enabled the company to industrialise textile manufacturing across the region."
Often used for the historical development of countries, regions, or economies.
To organize work, production, or a process using industrial methods or large-scale organization.
"The agreement industrialized the distribution of fresh food throughout the country."
In this sense, it may imply standardization, mechanization, or increased efficiency.
Industrialisation transformed how goods were made, but it also reshaped landscapes, cities, labour, and the balance between economic growth and environmental cost.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does industrialise come from?
The word comes from the adjective industrial, which derives from Latin industria, meaning diligence or purposeful activity, and industrius, meaning busy or diligent. The verb was formed in the early nineteenth century as industrial plus the suffix -ise, meaning to make something industrial. Its early use is closely associated with the economic transformation known as industrialisation.
Related word forms
How industrialise is actually used
The verb is commonly used in historical, economic, and industrial contexts. British English usually prefers the ending -ise, while American English usually uses -ize. It often implies a broad transformation rather than simply increasing production.
Easily confused with industrialise
Industry is the economic activity or sector itself, whereas industrialise is the process of developing that activity or putting a process into industrial operation.