reify

[ree-uh-fahy, rey-]

verb (used with object)

reified, reifying 

1. to convert into or regard as a concrete thing.

   to reify a concept.

reify

/ ˈriːɪˌfaɪ /

verb

1. (tr) to consider or make (an abstract idea or concept) real or concrete

Other Word Forms

• reification noun
• reifier noun
• reificatory adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of reify¹

First recorded in 1850–55; from Latin rē(s) “thing” + -ify

Word History and Origins

Origin of reify¹

C19: from Latin rēs thing; compare _deify

Example Sentences

Recently, the conservative Supreme Court reified the concept with the Dobbs decision, reversing the constitutional right to abortion under Roe v.

Read more on Salon

Recent Supreme Court rulings have laid the groundwork for this strategy by reifying the right-wing belief that "science" is whatever a Federalist Society-selected judge says it is.

Read more on Salon

We see this push for closure reified across American culture.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The brain latches on or compares itself to others, starting a negative cycle of thinking that can reify itself.

Read more on Seattle Times

Scholars have shown us the iteration of the KKK in the 1910s and 1920s was a thoroughly Christian movement to reify the American social order in the wake of Reconstruction.

Read more on Salon

Related Words

• demonstrate 
• epitomize 
• exemplify 
• exhibit 
• express 
• illustrate 
• incorporate 
• manifest 
• mirror 
• personify 
• realize 
• stand for 
• symbolize 
• typify