Synonyms

codify

American

[kod-uh-fahy, koh-duh-] / ˈkɒd əˌfaɪ, ˈkoʊ də- /

verb (used with object)

codified, codifying

to compile (laws, rules, etc.) into an orderly, formal code.
to make a digest of; arrange in a systematic collection.

Synonyms:

group, organize, order, catalog, classify

codify British

/ ˈkəʊdɪˌfaɪ, ˈkɒ- /

verb

(tr) to organize or collect together (laws, rules, procedures, etc) into a system or code

"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

Other Word Forms

codifiability noun
codifier noun
recodify verb (used with object)

Etymology

Origin of codify

First recorded in 1795–1805; code + -ify

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Some elements of the new law will simplify and codify existing best practices.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 20, 2025

Though the recurrent phrase “citizen of the United States” had strong nationalist overtones, perhaps the framers did not mean to codify a one-size-fits-all approach.

From The Wall Street Journal • Sep. 4, 2025

But again, these chapters codify the Black American experience as one defined by pain and primarily linked to chattel slavery.

From Salon • Aug. 11, 2025

Russell also expressed his opinions about the decision by governing body the FIA to codify a system that could lead to drivers being banned for swearing or criticising race officials.

From BBC • Feb. 18, 2025

He had tried to codify the evil uses of might by individuals, so that he might set bounds to them by the impersonal justice of the state.

From "The Once and Future King" by T. H. White

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023