rationalize

verb ra·tio·nal·ize \ˈrash-nə-ˌlīz, ˈra-shə-nə-ˌlīz\

: to think about or describe something (such as bad behavior) in a way that explains it and makes it seem proper, more attractive, etc.

: to find ways to make (something, such as an industry, a company, etc.) waste less time, effort, and money

ra·tio·nal·izedra·tio·nal·iz·ing

Full Definition of RATIONALIZE

transitive verb

: to bring into accord with reason or cause something to seem reasonable: as

a : to substitute a natural for a supernatural explanation of <rationalize a myth>

b : to attribute (one's actions) to rational and creditable motives without analysis of true and especially unconscious motives <rationalized his dislike of his brother> ; broadly : to create an excuse or more attractive explanation for <rationalize the problem>

: to free (a mathematical expression) from irrational parts <rationalize a denominator>

: to apply the principles of scientific management to (as an industry or its operations) for a desired result (as increased efficiency)

intransitive verb

: to provide plausible but untrue reasons for conduct

— ra·tio·nal·iz·able \ˌrash-nə-ˈlī-zə-bəl, ˌra-shə-nə-ˈlī-\ adjective

— ra·tio·nal·i·za·tion \ˌrash-nə-lə-ˈzā-shən, ˌra-shə-nə-lə-\ noun

— ra·tio·nal·iz·er \ˈrash-nə-ˌlī-zər, ˈra-shə-nə-ˌlī-\ noun

See rationalize defined for English-language learners

See rationalize defined for kids

First Known Use of RATIONALIZE

1803

Related to RATIONALIZE

Synonyms: account (for), attribute, explain away, explain

RATIONALIZE Defined for Kids

rationalize

verb ra·tio·nal·ize \ˈra-shə-nə-ˌlīz\

ra·tio·nal·izedra·tio·nal·iz·ing

Definition of RATIONALIZE for Kids

: to find an excuse for something that seems reasonable or believable <He tried to rationalize his foolish purchase.>

Medical Dictionary

rationalize

verb ra·tio·nal·ize

ra·tio·nal·ized also British ra·tio·nal·isedra·tio·nal·iz·ing also British ra·tio·nal·is·ing

Medical Definition of RATIONALIZE

transitive verb

: to bring into accord with reason or cause something to seem reasonable; especially : to attribute (one's actions) to rational and creditable motives without analysis of true and especially unconscious motives <he tried to rationalize his cruel behavior>

intransitive verb

: to provide plausible but untrue reasons for conduct