virtualize

[ vur-choo-uh-lahyz ]

verb (used with object),vir·tu·al·ized, vir·tu·al·iz·ing.
  1. Computers. to create a simulated or extended version of (a computer, operating system, data storage device, etc.) using software: the resulting device is not itself independent, but functions and presents itself to the user as a single, physical entity: A virtualized server can boost processing power and reduce costs.

  2. Digital Technology. to store, access, or carry out online or by means of a computer; computerize or digitize: Now that they’ve virtualized the filing of tax returns, the IRS is more efficient.

Origin of virtualize

1
First recorded in 1830–40; virtual + -ize

Other words from virtualize

  • vir·tu·al·i·za·tion [vur-choo-uh-lahy-zey-shuhn], /ˌvɜr tʃu ə laɪˈzeɪ ʃən/, noun

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024

British Dictionary definitions for virtualize

virtualize

virtualise

/ (ˈvɜːtʃʊəˌlaɪz) /


verb
  1. (tr) to transform (something) into an artificial computer-generated version of itself which functions as if it were real

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