What does socialize mean?
To socialize means to take part in informal social interaction, such as conversation, conversation at a gathering, or getting to know people in a relaxed setting. It commonly describes mixing with friends, colleagues, guests, or members of a group. In British and North American English, the verb is especially associated with friendly social activity rather than formal discussion, although it can also refer more broadly to building relationships and encouraging participation in a community. A less common sense is to make someone or something more socially integrated or socially oriented, as in a program designed to socialize new employees. The word can therefore describe both the activity of mixing and the process of making people more comfortable within a social group. Its noun form, socialization, is used especially in education, psychology, public policy, and discussions of childhood development and community life.
To participate in informal social interaction or mix with other people.
"They socialized at the reception and talked about their work and families."
Usually friendly and informal; it may imply getting to know people or building a social network.
To make someone or something more socially integrated or socially oriented.
"The teacher worked to socialize the children through group activities and classroom discussion."
Less common and more formal than the sense of mixing with other people; especially used in educational and institutional contexts.
To socialize is not merely to meet people: it is to enter the informal world of shared conversation, friendship, and connection.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does socialize come from?
Socialize was formed in the 19th century from social, an adjective derived from Latin socialis, meaning “pertaining to companionship or society.” The underlying Latin root socius means “companion” or “ally,” which also connects the word with society, sociable, and sociology. The verb originally developed the sense of making something social or suitable for social use, before becoming established in its familiar meaning of mixing informally with other people.
Related word forms
How socialize is actually used
The commonest sense is informal and usually implies friendly or relaxed interaction. The less common sense, meaning to make something socially suitable or integrated, is more formal and occurs especially in social, educational, or institutional contexts.
Easily confused with socialize
Socialise is the usual British spelling of the same verb, while socialize is the standard North American spelling.
Sociable describes someone who enjoys the company of others, whereas socialize is the action of taking part in social interaction.