prioritize

especially British, pri·or·i·tise

[prahy-awr-i-tahyz, -or-]

verb (used with object)

prioritized, prioritizing 

1. to arrange or do in order of priority.

   learning to prioritize our assignments.

2. to give a high priority to.

verb (used without object)

prioritized, prioritizing 

1. to organize or deal with something according to its priority.

prioritize

/ praɪˈɒrɪˌtaɪz /

verb

1. to arrange (items to be attended to) in order of their relative importance

2. to give priority to or establish as a priority

Spelling Note

See -ize.

Other Word Forms

• prioritization noun
• reprioritization noun
• reprioritize verb (used with object)

Word History and Origins

Origin of prioritize¹

First recorded in 1965–70; priorit(y) + -ize

Example Sentences

These transhumans are beta tests for extending the human lifespan, as noble an endeavor as prioritizing interplanetary travel.

From Salon

At a Head Start classroom in Alexandria this spring, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. did more than just stage a photo-op — he underscored his department’s initiatives to prioritize healthy eating and nutrition.

From Salon

The same private company helps define how investigations are conducted, how targets are prioritized, how algorithms work and how decisions are justified.

From Salon

Kim said a needs assessment is under way, to prioritize projects and make the most efficient use of limited resources.

From Los Angeles Times

Matthew and Maria Raine, the parents of Adam, accuse the San Francisco tech company of making design choices that prioritized engagement over safety.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• compute 
• register 
• set up