verb B1 Intermediate Uncommon

classify

KLAS-ih-feye

Classify (verb) means to sort into groups or categories based on shared traits. Example: “Scientists classify sharks as fish, not mammals.”

verb

To sort into groups or categories based on shared traits.

"Scientists classify sharks as fish, not mammals."

To officially mark information as secret.

"The government chose to classify the report."

How to use classify

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo sort something into a category, or to officially declare information secret.

Common pairings

classify as classify information

Word forms

classified past tense, classifies singular

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Scientists _____ sharks as fish, not mammals.

Etymology

From French classifier. By surface analysis, class + -ify.

Origin: French

Synonyms

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brand cast class categorize compartmentalise distribute divide estimate evaluate gauge label judge

Antonyms

declassify

Related words

family group course kind class education type cut

Rhymes for classify

unify codify verify pacify notify purify modify qualify amplify crucify specify falsify

See all rhymes for classify →

Frequently asked questions

What does “classify” mean?

The word “classify” means to sort into groups or categories based on shared traits. In plain terms, to sort something into a category, or to officially declare information secret.

How do you pronounce “classify”?

“Classify” is pronounced KLAS-ih-feye (/ˈklæs.əˌfaɪ/ in IPA).

How do you use “classify” in a sentence?

Here is “classify” used in a sentence: “Scientists classify sharks as fish, not mammals.”

What is another word for “classify”?

Words with a similar meaning to “classify” include brand, cast, class, categorize, compartmentalise and distribute.

What is the opposite of “classify”?

The opposite of “classify” — its antonyms — is declassify.

What part of speech is “classify”?

“Classify” is a verb.

Is “classify” a common word?

“Classify” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

How many meanings does “classify” have?

“Classify” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to sort into groups or categories based on shared traits.

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