fordize

transitive verb

ford·​ize
-ˌdīz
-ed/-ing/-s
often capitalized
1
: to standardize in the interests of efficiency and mass production
fordize a plant
fordize the cotton industry
2
a
: to organize and control (people or their work) as if on an assembly line
the medical profession cannot be fordized until human beings become robotsE. H. Cary
an attempt to fordize high-school educationH. R. Linville
b
: to deprive of individuality
can we fordize our minds as well as our motorsGlenn Frank

Word History

Etymology

Henry Ford + English -ize

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near fordize

Cite this Entry

“Fordize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fordize. Accessed 3 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!