prioritize

[ prahy-awr-i-tahyz, -or- ]

verb (used with object)

, pri·or·i·tized, pri·or·i·tiz·ing.

1. to arrange or do in order of priority:

   learning to prioritize our assignments.

2. to give a high priority to.

verb (used without object)

, pri·or·i·tized, pri·or·i·tiz·ing.

1. to organize or deal with something according to its priority.

prioritize

/ praɪˈɒrɪˌtaɪz /

verb

1. to arrange (items to be attended to) in order of their relative importance
2. to give priority to or establish as a priority

Spelling Note

See -ize.

Derived Forms

• ˌprioritiˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• pri·ori·ti·zation noun
• repri·ori·ti·zation noun
• repri·ori·tize verb (used with object) reprioritized reprioritizing

Word History and Origins

Origin of prioritize¹

First recorded in 1965–70; priorit(y) + -ize

Example Sentences

Rubio, a hawkish Republican who has consistently favored American military intervention overseas, nominally diverges from Grenell and other America First proponents who say that they to want prioritize U.S. interests rather act as a world policeman.

From Salon

That said, we prioritize the safety of our community and wildlife.

From Los Angeles Times

"The acute and immediate needs of the Haitian people mandate that the transitional government prioritize governance over the competing personal interests of political actors," a statement said.

From BBC

But Seneca Scott, spokesperson for the recall campaign against Thao, said the voter frustration rippling through the Bay Area should be seen as an indictment of local leaders who prioritize progressive politics over a well-functioning community.

From Los Angeles Times

His newly appointed “border czar,” Tom Homan, said Monday that the Trump administration will prioritize deporting people who are living in the country illegally and pose a threat to public safety.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• compute
• register
• set up