visualize
UK: ˈvɪʒ.u.ə.laɪz | US: ˈvɪʒ.u.ə.laɪz
vt. to form a mental image of something; make visible to the mind or imagination
vt. to represent something in a visual form, such as a chart or diagram
vi. to use visual imagery for understanding or problem-solving
visualize = visual<relating to sight> + ize<verb suffix meaning "to make or become">
- visual: Derived from Latin visus (sight), via Late Latin visualis. Retains the core meaning of "pertaining to seeing."
- ize: A verb-forming suffix from Greek -izein, adopted into Latin -izare and later English. Indicates transformation or causation (e.g., "make into" or "act like").
Etymology Origin:
The word visualize emerged in the early 19th century, combining visual (rooted in the Latin videre, "to see") with the productive suffix -ize. It reflects the human tendency to conceptualize abstract ideas through sight—literally "making visible" what is imagined or theoretical. The suffix -ize systematically turns nouns into verbs, emphasizing action (e.g., realize, modernize).
Scientists use graphs to visualize complex data trends.
Close your eyes and visualize a peaceful beach at sunset.
The software helps architects visualize 3D building designs.
Children often struggle to visualize abstract mathematical concepts.
Her speech was so vivid that listeners could easily visualize the scene.