canalize

verb

can·​a·​lize ˈka-nə-ˌlīz 

canalized; canalizing

transitive verb

1

a

: to provide with a canal or channel

b

: to make into or similar to a canal

2

: to provide with an outlet

especially : to direct into preferred channels

intransitive verb

1

: to flow in or into a channel

2

: to establish new channels

Synonyms

• channel
• channelize
• conduct
• direct
• funnel
• pipe
• siphon
• syphon

Examples of canalize in a Sentence

the director of the charity should be canalizing the flow of donations so that the money ends up where it is most needed

Recent Examples on the Web

Some became conscious of the role a state could play in intervening in the economy in order to curb and canalize democracy. —Zeev Sternhell, Slate Magazine, 7 Apr. 2017

Word History

First Known Use

1830, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a

Medical Definition

canalize

verb

can·​a·​lize

variants or British canalise

ˈkan-ᵊl-ˌīz 

canalized or British canalised; canalizing or British canalising

transitive verb

: to drain (a wound) by forming channels without the use of tubes

intransitive verb

: to develop new channels (as new capillaries in a blood clot)