industrialization
Americannoun
-
the large-scale introduction of manufacturing, advanced technical enterprises, and other productive economic activity into an area, society, country, etc.
-
conversion to the methods, aims, and ideals of industry and economic activity, particularly of an area that was previously underdeveloped economically.
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of industrialization
Explanation
Industrialization occurs when industry is introduced on a large scale to a region or country — for example, when an economy goes from being based on agriculture to being based on manufacturing and other industries. In Europe and the United States, industrialization occurred in the 1700s and 1800s, with the changes beginning in Britain. This period is called the Industrial Revolution. Textile manufacturing became mechanized, transportation (canals, railroads, and road systems) became more efficient, and steam power was introduced. Goods became more accessible and cheaper.
Vocabulary lists containing industrialization
The Industrial Revolution - Introductory
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
The United States
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
American History II
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“The industrialization of our coastline that offshore wind would create, I think, is just grotesque, and I’m dead against it.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 7, 2026
Increased military spending around the world and a push to double down on industrialization bodes well for South Korea’s shipbuilders, powertrain, and other industrial businesses.
From Barron's ● Jun. 19, 2026
By the turn of the 20th century, the combined trends of industrialization and urbanization created a new class of American, the consumer.
From Barron's ● Jun. 17, 2026
The film “Koyaanisqatsi,” directed by Godfrey Reggio, juxtaposes footage that centers on the relationship between nature, humanity and technology to depict industrialization and capitalism’s impact on the climate.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 4, 2026
Much of Europe, Asia, and North Africa was the site of metal-equipped states or empires, some of them on the threshold of industrialization.
From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond
Random Word
Spin the wheel and learn a new word!
Get a wordDefinitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
