canalize

[ kan-l-ahyz, kuh-nal-ahyz ]

/ ˈkæn lˌaɪz, kəˈnæl aɪz /

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verb (used with object), can·al·ized, can·al·iz·ing.

to make a canal or canals through.

to convert into a canal.

to divide (a stream) into reaches with locks or dams, usually to maintain navigable depths.

to divert into certain channels; give a certain direction to or provide a certain outlet for.

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Also especially British, can·al·ise .

Origin of canalize

First recorded in 1850–55; canal + -ize

OTHER WORDS FROM canalize

un·ca·nal·ized, adjective

Words nearby canalize

canal, canal boat, Canaletto, canaliculus, canalization, canalize, canaller, canal ray, Canal Zone, Canandaigua, Canandaigua Lake

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

British Dictionary definitions for canalize

canalize

canalise

/ (ˈkænəˌlaɪz) /

verb (tr)

to provide with or convert into a canal or canals

to give a particular direction to or provide an outlet for; channel

to divide a channel into separate reaches controlled by dams and weirs to aid navigation, control water levels, generate power, etc

Derived forms of canalize

canalization or canalisation, noun

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012