socialization

American  

[soh-shuh-luh-zey-shuhn] / ˌsoʊ ʃə ləˈzeɪ ʃən /

noun

1. a continuing process whereby an individual acquires a personal identity and learns the norms, values, behavior, and social skills appropriate to their social position.

2. the act or process of aligning with the precepts of socialism.

   the socialization of industry.

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socialization British  

/ ˌsəʊʃəlaɪˈzeɪʃən /

noun

1. psychol the modification from infancy of an individual's behaviour to conform with the demands of social life

2. the act of socializing or the state of being socialized

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socialization Cultural  

1. Learning the customs, attitudes, and values of a social group, community, or culture. Socialization is essential for the development of individuals who can participate and function within their societies, as well as for ensuring that a society's cultural features will be carried on through new generations. Socialization is most strongly enforced by family, school, and peer groups and continues throughout an individual's lifetime. (See also acculturation.)

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Etymology

Origin of socialization

First recorded in 1885–90; socialize + -ation

Explanation

The act of adapting behavior to the norms of a culture or society is called socialization. Socialization can also mean going out and meeting people or hanging out with friends. The word socialization can mean "the process of making social." The socialization of a dog or a cat with humans and with other dogs or cats can establish positive behaviors for pets. It's not a bad idea for people, either. If you constantly chat with your co-workers, your manager might inform you that you are there to work, not for socialization. Maybe he's just jealous because no one talks to him.

Example Sentences

Noah Neiman, co-founder of the Rumble boxing chain, recently opened in the neighborhood the Pack, a self-defense and group-fitness studio that he believes will tap in to Americans’ heightened health consciousness and socialization post pandemic.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 17, 2026

"Religion may provide some way of making sense of the world, some sense of identity in relation to others, that can't easily be replaced by other forms of socialization," Oostrom said.

From Science Daily • Dec. 20, 2025

The answer often reveals how much solitude and socialization a person needs.

From MarketWatch • Oct. 22, 2025

That curiosity is part of my socialization, and it will likely be with me for the rest of my life.

From Salon • Sep. 9, 2025

Small periods of socialization are granted to alleviate the tedium.

From "Mockingjay" by Suzanne Collins