fictionalize

verb

fic·​tion·​al·​ize ˈfik-sh(ə-)nə-ˌlīz How to pronounce fictionalize (audio)
fictionalized; fictionalizing

transitive verb

: to make into or treat in the manner of fiction
fictionalize a biography
fictionalization noun

Examples of fictionalize in a Sentence

The book is a fictionalized account of their travels. Her books are based in fact, but she fictionalizes many of the events.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
While the show fictionalizes some elements—including setting the story in New York instead of Los Angeles and merging several suitors into a single character played by Rob Delaney—the emotional truths of her story are preserved. Raja Krishnamoorthi, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 Apr. 2025 The team went to lengths to make sure their series, although fictionalized, felt authentic. Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 9 Apr. 2025 The movie is based on Mendoza’s own experiences during the Iraq war and is slightly fictionalized to protect some platoon members’ identities. Emily Zemler, Los Angeles Times, 8 Apr. 2025 In the show, Molly’s husband is fictionalized, is named Steve, and is played by Jay Duplass. Lea Veloso, StyleCaster, 7 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for fictionalize

Word History

Etymology

fictional + -ize

First Known Use

1918, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fictionalize was in 1918

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fictionalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fictionalize. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

fictionalize

verb
fic·​tion·​al·​ize ˈfik-shnə-līz How to pronounce fictionalize (audio)
-shən-ᵊl-īz
fictionalized; fictionalizing
: to make into fiction
fictionalize a biography
fictionalization noun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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