materialize

verb

ma·​te·​ri·​al·​ize mə-ˈtir-ē-ə-ˌlīz 

materialized; materializing

transitive verb

1

a

: to make material : objectify

b

: to cause to appear in bodily form

materialize the spirits of the dead

2

: to cause to be materialistic

intransitive verb

1

: to assume bodily form

2

a

: to appear especially suddenly

b

: to come into existence

materializer noun

Synonyms

• actualize
• appear
• arise
• begin
• break
• commence
• dawn
• engender
• form
• originate
• set in
• spring
• start

Examples of materialize in a Sentence

A waiter suddenly materialized beside our table.

Rain clouds materialized on the horizon.

Recent Examples on the Web

In a best-case scenario, these situations can give you the opportunity to stretch, shine, and materialize a dream. —Elizabeth Ayoola, Essence, 21 Jan. 2025

Babygirl may be in tune with the Zeitgeist, but its Oscar lane hasn’t materialized. —Nate Jones, Vulture, 18 Jan. 2025

Additionally, the candelabra will appear a third time, materializing in a cemetery crypt in the ride’s final act. —Todd Martens, Los Angeles Times, 17 Jan. 2025

It's been a rough two weeks for Heat fans: Top star Jimmy Butler demanded a trade, got suspended for seven games and is set to make his return to the court tomorrow after no trade materialized. —Martin Vassolo, Axios, 16 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1710, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a

Kids Definition

materialize

verb

ma·​te·​ri·​al·​ize mə-ˈtir-ē-ə-ˌlīz 

materialized; materializing

1

: to give material form and substance to

2

: to assume or cause to assume bodily form

a ghost materialized out of nowhere

3

a

: to come into existence

a promise that never materialized

b

: to appear suddenly