equalize

verb

equal·​ize ˈē-kwə-ˌlīz How to pronounce equalize (audio)
equalized; equalizing

transitive verb

1
: to make equal
2
a
: to compensate for
b
: to make uniform
especially : to distribute evenly or uniformly
equalize the tax burden
c
: to adjust or correct the frequency characteristics of (an electronic signal) by restoring to their original level high frequencies that have been attenuated

intransitive verb

chiefly British : to tie the score
equalization noun

Examples of equalize in a Sentence

They are hoping to equalize pay for workers with similar jobs. Educational opportunities have not yet equalized. trying to equalize the pressure
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Host a family retreat, hire an independent consultant, and use life insurance to equalize inheritance. Matthew F. Erskine, Forbes, 2 Dec. 2024 The host then equalized in the 83rd minute courtesy of Andri Guðjohnsen to set up a frantic end to the game. Ben Church, CNN, 15 Oct. 2024 Shifting the area rugs and furniture around occasionally can equalize the UV exposure while slowing the overall fading of the wood floor. Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Sep. 2024 For the first time since the 2012 Olympic semifinal, Team USA did not lead at halftime, instead tied 25-25 thanks to a late layup from former UConn star Napheesa Collier to equalize it. Emily Adams, Hartford Courant, 11 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for equalize 

Word History

First Known Use

1599, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of equalize was in 1599

Dictionary Entries Near equalize

Cite this Entry

“Equalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/equalize. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

equalize

verb
equal·​ize ˈē-kwə-ˌlīz How to pronounce equalize (audio)
equalized; equalizing
1
: to make equal
2
: to make uniform
especially : to distribute evenly
equalization noun
equalizer
ˈē-kwə-ˌlī-zər
noun

More from Merriam-Webster on equalize

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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