Categorize Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Psychology

• Categorization is a key process in human cognition; it helps us simplify the complex world.
• People often form categories based on shared characteristics, like colors or shapes, influencing memory and decision-making.
• In social psychology, the way we categorize people can affect our biases and how we interact with different groups.

Science

• In biology, organisms are categorized in a hierarchical structure, starting from domain down to species.
• The classification system helps scientists universally identify and study living organisms.
• New technologies, like DNA sequencing, are enabling scientists to categorize species more accurately than ever before.

Education

• In teaching, effective categorization can improve learning by helping students group similar concepts together.
• Using graphic organizers, like Venn diagrams, can visually help categorize information.
• Educators often encourage students to categorize their notes to make studying easier.

Pop Culture

• Many video games use categorization to organize characters and items, helping players find what they need quickly.
• In libraries, books are categorized by genres, making it easier for readers to discover new favorites.
• Social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest use categorization through hashtags to help users find content.

Main points about word origin

• The word comes from the Greek 'kategorikos,' meaning 'to declare' or 'to assert.'
• It entered the English language in the late 15th century, mostly used in philosophy at first.
• Throughout time, it evolved to represent the act of sorting objects or ideas.

The word 'categorize' originated from the Latin word 'categoria', which means a class or division. The concept of categorization has been present in human societies for centuries, as it helps in organizing information and objects efficiently. The modern use of 'categorize' in English dates back to the 18th century, with its roots in philosophical and scientific discussions on classification and taxonomy.

See also: categorical, categories, categorization, category.

With rank #19,746, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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