crystallize
Americanverb (used with object)
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to form into crystals; cause to assume crystalline form.
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to give definite or concrete form to.
to crystallize an idea.
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to coat with sugar.
verb (used without object)
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to form crystals; become crystalline in form.
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to assume definite or concrete form.
verb
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to form or cause to form crystals; assume or cause to assume a crystalline form or structure
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to coat or become coated with sugar
crystallized fruit
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to give a definite form or expression to (an idea, argument, etc) or (of an idea, argument, etc) to assume a recognizable or definite form
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of crystallize
Vocabulary lists containing crystallize
Academic Vocabulary, Unit 3
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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.
Even the Piker issue—the one that seems to crystallize so much of the anxiety there—he treated as over-indexed.
From Slate • Apr. 29, 2026
“It would be very surprising to markets if the Fed tried to crystallize gains. Most experts would tell you it’s highly unlikely. I would tell you it is highly unlikely,” Cabana said.
From MarketWatch • Apr. 18, 2026
“Today’s announcement creates a compelling opportunity that provides certainty and immediate returns for our shareholders, enabling them to crystallize the significant value generated during our strategic review,” IHS Chief Executive Officer Sam Darwish said.
From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 17, 2026
Outlook statements from the wave of earnings reports expected over the next two weeks will crystallize that view.
From Barron's • Jan. 19, 2026
She felt them gathering their strength inside her, felt each passing second crystallize into a map of strategic striking points wrapping around Wick’s body.
From "Shadowshaper" by Daniel José Older
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
