energize
Americanverb (used with object)
-
to give energy to; rouse into activity.
to energize the spirit with brave words.
-
to supply electrical current to or store electrical energy in.
verb (used without object)
verb
-
to have or cause to have energy; invigorate
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(tr) to apply a source of electric current or electromotive force to (a circuit, field winding, etc)
Other Word Forms
- energizer noun
- reenergize verb (used with object)
- superenergized adjective
- unenergized adjective
Etymology
Origin of energize
Explanation
Energize means to raise the energy level of something. If your really boring teacher suddenly starts throwing M&Ms to every student with a correct answer, he will energize the classroom. Ever seen the Energizer Bunny––the one who "keeps going and going and going?" It's because he's energized by long-lasting batteries that he has the energy to beat that drum over and over. Someone who's feeling low on energy might be reenergized by a cat nap or a candy bar.
Vocabulary lists containing energize
"Modern Automotive Technology," Vocabulary from Section 11
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"CLEP Principles of Management," Vocabulary from Chapter 12
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"The MGMT Solution," Vocabulary from Chapter 13
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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.
The race has become a test of strategy: Crockett argues her combative style will energize turnout, while Talarico presents himself as a bridge to moderates and disaffected Republicans.
From Barron's • Mar. 3, 2026
These charged particles energize atmospheric gases, causing them to glow.
From Science Daily • Feb. 17, 2026
Downtown L.A. is doing better than you think it is, but the government needs to do more to energize the city, said one of the region’s longest and most successful real estate leaders.
From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 24, 2025
It may — but it will also energize everyone else.
From Salon • Dec. 10, 2025
The challenge then becomes timing the electrical impulses so they energize the gap at the very moment the particles cross, which means generating them from an oscillator working at a fixed frequency.
From "Big Science" by Michael Hiltzik
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.
