ENGLISH
REFERENCE

capitalize

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈkæpətəˌɫaɪz// cap·i·tal·ize Dialect

v. to write a letter in its large form, especially at the start of a sentence or for a name. You use this to make words stand out.

v. to write or print a letter in its uppercase form. Typically used in the passive voice when referring to specific words or names.


SIMPLE

Please capitalize the first letter of your name.

CONTEXTUAL

The style guide requires you to capitalize all proper nouns in the title.

COMPLEX

In legal documents, certain terms are capitalized to indicate they carry a specific, previously defined meaning within the contract.

Origin

From capital + -ize, the first element ultimately from Latin capitālis (“of the head”).

Usage

The verb is transitive and takes a direct object.

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