/ Dictionary / Index I initialize: Meaning and Definition of Find definitions for: in•i•tial•ize Pronunciation: (i-nish'u-līz"), [key] — -ized, -iz•ing. to set (variables, counters, switches, etc.) to their starting values at the beginning of a program or subprogram. to clear (internal memory, a disk, etc.) of previous data in preparation for use. Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease. See also: initialize (Thesaurus) initialism initial rhyme Related Content Daily Word Quiz: penury Analogy of the Day: Today’s Analogy Spelling Bee: Today’s Spelling Bee Frequently Misspelled Words Frequently Mispronounced Words Easily Confused Words Writing & Language