fictionalize

[ fik-shuh-nl-ahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, fic·tion·al·ized, fic·tion·al·iz·ing.

1. to make into fiction; give a somewhat imaginative or fictional version of:

   to fictionalize a biography.

fictionalize

/ ˈfɪkʃənəˌlaɪz /

verb

1. tr to make into fiction or give a fictional aspect to

Derived Forms

• ˌfictionaliˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• fiction·al·i·zation noun
• fiction·al·izer noun
• semi·fiction·al·ized adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of fictionalize¹

First recorded in 1920–25; fictional ( def ) + -ize

Example Sentences

After a Wes Anderson-esque opening of orderly pomp in which our fictionalized septet of epically shallow nation leaders is introduced, the hard work of schmoozy collaboration and managing petty neuroses begins.

From Los Angeles Times

This latest series is not the first time Murphy has faced criticism for his fictionalized true crime accounts.

From Salon

I don’t want to ask you specifically about that, but rather the creative habit of approaching Lincoln’s life stories from an array of directions including fictionalizing him as a vampire slayer.

From Salon

The highly divisive film about a fictionalized Marilyn Monroe from director Andrew Dominik reportedly earned a 14-minute standing ovation but has already been mostly forgotten.

From Los Angeles Times

Producers are keeping “The Boys” in the pop culture conversation with unexpected cameos and guest stars, such as Will Ferrell turning up as a coach in a fictionalized movie about superhero A-Train.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• fabricate