English Explanatory Dictionary

rationalize

English dictionary entry

Meanings

verb
  1. To make something rational or more rational.
  2. To justify a discreditable act, or irrational behaviour.
  3. To remove radicals, without changing the value of an expression or the roots of an equation.
  4. To structure something along modern, efficient and systematic lines, or according to scientific principles. This often includes eliminating duplication and grouping like or similar items.

Pronunciation

/ˈɹæʃənəlaɪz/ LL-Q1860 (eng)-Vealhurl-rationalize.wav

Word forms

rationalize rationalizes rationalizing rationalized rationalise

Etymology

From French rationaliser. By surface analysis, rational + -ize.

Derived words

backward rationalize overrationalize rationalizability rationalizable rationalization rationalisation rationalizer rerationalize
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