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Definition of rationalize

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ra·tion·al·ize  audio  (rsh-n-lz) KEY  

VERB:
ra·tion·al·ized , ra·tion·al·iz·ing , ra·tion·al·iz·es
VERB:
tr.
  1. To make rational.
  2. To interpret from a rational standpoint.
  3. To devise self-satisfying but incorrect reasons for (one's behavior): "Many shoppers still rationalize luxury purchases as investments" (Janice Castro).
  4. Mathematics To remove radicals, such as from a denominator, without changing the value of (an expression) or roots of (an equation).
  5. Chiefly British To bring modern, efficient methods to (an industry, for example).
VERB:
intr.
  1. To think in a rational or rationalistic way.
  2. To devise self-satisfying but incorrect reasons for one's behavior.


OTHER FORMS:
ration·al·izer (Noun)


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The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition.
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