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Alphabetize Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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alphabetize

[ˌæl.fəˈbɛt.aɪz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

order listing

To arrange words or items in the order of the letters of the alphabet. This process is often used in libraries and educational contexts to make information easier to find efficiently.

Synonyms

arrange, order, organize, sort.

Examples of usage

  • We need to alphabetize the book titles for the library catalog.
  • Please alphabetize the names on the guest list.
  • The teacher asked us to alphabetize our vocabulary words.
  • Can you alphabetize these files for me?
  • It's helpful to alphabetize your notes for easier reviewing.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cognitive Science

  • Alphabetizing helps improve memory by creating structured associations between words and their placement.
  • Sorting information alphabetically can reduce cognitive load, making it easier for people to retrieve information when needed.
  • Studies show that organizing data in alphabetical order can enhance learning and comprehension in educational settings.

Education

  • Learning to alphabetize is often one of the first lessons in reading and writing classes, forming a foundation for literacy.
  • Alphabetical order is used widely in dictionaries, encyclopedias, and indexes, allowing for quick reference and retrieval.
  • In many classrooms, teachers use fun activities to help students practice alphabetizing, making the learning process engaging.

Cultural References

  • Alphabetization is a key element in many popular children's books, where story characters may find items in alphabetical order.
  • In music, some artists use alphabetic systems to catalog their songs or albums, making it easier for fans to explore their work.
  • The popular search engine uses an advanced alphabetizing algorithm to present results in a useful and organized way.

Origin of 'alphabetize'

Main points about word origin

  • This term comes from the word 'alphabet', which is formed from the first two letters of the Greek alphabet: alpha and beta.
  • The practice of sorting words in alphabetical order dates back to ancient libraries as a way to organize knowledge.
  • 'Alphabetize' combines the alphabet with the process of organizing, highlighting its function in language.

The word 'alphabetize' comes from the term 'alphabet', which is derived from the first two letters of the Greek alphabet: alpha and beta. The practice of arranging items in alphabetical order began with the development of written language and the need for organization. The process of alphabetization became formalized in the 19th century as libraries and educational institutions sought more systematic ways to categorize information. The verb 'alphabetize' specifically emerged in English in the early 20th century, reflecting a growing emphasis on organizational methods in various fields, including education and information management. As communication expanded and records became more complex, the need for clear and consistent ordering of text grew, thus solidifying the use of the term in modern contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,399, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.