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Synonyms

customize

American  
[kuhs-tuh-mahyz] / ˈkʌs təˌmaɪz /
especially British, customise

verb (used with object)

customized, customizing
  1. to modify or build according to individual or personal specifications or preference.

    to customize an automobile.


customize British  
/ ˈkʌstəˌmaɪz /

verb

  1. (tr) to modify (something) according to a customer's individual requirements

"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

Etymology

Origin of customize

An Americanism dating back to 1930–35; custom + -ize

Explanation

To customize something is to make it exactly how you want it. If you put stickers all over your plain old notebook, you customize it. If you see the word customer in customize, you’re onto something — to customize is to make something to a customer’s specifications. When clothes are customized — or tailored — they’re made with you in mind, specifically. A customized suit should fit perfectly. If you customize your car, it could be bright pink with eyelashes on the headlights. Or not.

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Vocabulary lists containing customize

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.

Customize for whatever best suits your tastes, as always.

From Salon • Nov. 27, 2022

Customize the Figaro and Staple Chain Bracelets with a child’s name, zodiac sign or a significant date.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 2, 2022

Customize icons in the Home app Customizing the icons for your devices and Scenes can make it easier to quickly find what you’re looking for.

From The Verge • Aug. 2, 2022

Customize these caramelized-scallion noodles with any toppings you choose.

From New York Times • Jul. 21, 2022

One says Off, another says Switch Scene, while a third says Customize.

From "Warcross" by Marie Lu

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