economize

verb

econ·​o·​mize i-ˈkä-nə-ˌmīz How to pronounce economize (audio)
economized; economizing
Synonyms of economizenext

intransitive verb

: to practice economy : be frugal

transitive verb

: to use frugally : save
economizer noun

Synonyms of economize

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Examples of economize in a Sentence

He was born into a wealthy family and never learned to economize. in tough times people learn how to economize
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
One way to economize in retirement is to find a state with a lower cost of living. — Daniel De Visé, USA Today, 11 Jan. 2026 Many consumers are also planning to economize on clothes, shoes, hobby items, and toys and games, the survey found. — Christopher Rugaber, Fortune, 26 May 2026 In competitive markets, companies must economize and tighten their belts when faced with rising costs. — David S. Lapp, Baltimore Sun, 26 Jan. 2026 In short, economizing on non-defense outlays simply has to bring mandatory spending under review. — Editorial, Boston Herald, 17 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for economize

Word History

Etymology

economy entry 1 + -ize

First Known Use

1780, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of economize was in 1780

Rhymes for economize

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Browse Nearby Words

Economite
economize
economizer
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Economize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/economize. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

economize

verb
econ·​o·​mize i-ˈkän-ə-ˌmīz How to pronounce economize (audio)
economized; economizing
1
: to practice economy : be thrifty
economize on fuel
2
: to use less of : save
economize fuel
economizer noun

More from Merriam-Webster on economize

Nglish: Translation of economize for Spanish Speakers

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