What does harmonize mean?
Harmonize is a verb meaning to bring different elements into agreement, compatibility, or pleasing balance. It is commonly used for ideas, opinions, people, sounds, colors, designs, and natural environments. For example, a mediator may try to harmonize opposing viewpoints, while an interior designer may choose furniture that harmonizes with a room's architecture. The word can also describe people or organizations reaching agreement: “The two committees harmonized their recommendations before presenting them.” In music, harmonize means to accompany or combine with a melody in compatible chords, but the broader sense is making separate parts form a coherent whole. Harmonize generally carries a positive connotation, suggesting cooperation, order, and smoothness rather than the forced suppression of genuine differences.
verbTo bring things into agreement, compatibility, or pleasing balance. It can also mean to agree with another person, view, or set of circumstances.
- To make different people, ideas, things, or parts compatible, consistent, or pleasingly balanced.
- To agree or be in accord with someone or something.
- To combine or blend elements in a harmonious way, especially sounds, colors, or styles.
"The architect designed the new building to harmonize with the surrounding landscape."
"The committee worked for months to harmonize the different proposals."
"The soprano's voice harmonized beautifully with the choir."
From music to architecture, harmonize means making different elements work together without making them identical.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of harmonize
Harmonize entered English in the early 17th century, formed from harmony and the suffix -ize. Harmony itself comes through Old French and Latin from Greek harmonia, related to harmonos, meaning “joined” or “fitting together.” Related English words include harmonious, harmonic, and harmonium, all reflecting the same idea of musical or structural agreement.
Related word forms
How harmonize is actually used
The word is used in formal and professional contexts as well as in ordinary speech about music, design, relationships, and conflicting views. In American English, harmonize is standard; harmonise is the usual British spelling, with no difference in meaning.