capitalize

To capitalize is to use capital letters, to try to take advantage of or gain some advantage from something, or to provide funding.

(verb)

When you start a word with a capital letter, this is an example of when you capitalize the first letter.
When your boss makes a mistake and you take the opportunity to try to get his job, this is an example of a time when you capitalize on his mistake.
When you provide the funding for a start-up company to get off the ground, this is an example of a time when you capitalize the company.

See capitalize in Webster's New World College Dictionary

to use as capital; convert into capital
to calculate the present value of (a periodical payment, annuity, income, etc.); convert (an income, etc.) into one payment or sum equivalent to the computed present value
to establish the capital stock of (a business firm) at a certain figure
to convert (floating debt) into stock or shares
☆ to supply capital to or for (an enterprise)
☆ to print or write (a word or words) in capital letters
☆ to begin (a word) with a capital letter
Accounting to set up (expenditures) as assets

See capitalize in American Heritage Dictionary 4

verb cap·i·tal·ized, cap·i·tal·iz·ing, cap·i·tal·iz·es

verb, transitive

To use as or convert into capital.
To supply with capital or investment funds: capitalize a new business.
To authorize the issue of a certain amount of capital stock of: capitalize a corporation.
To convert (debt) into capital stock or shares.
To calculate the current value of (a future stream of earnings or cash flows).
To include (expenditures) in business accounts as assets instead of expenses.
a. To write or print in capital letters.
b. To begin a word with a capital letter.

verb, intransitive

To turn something to one's advantage; benefit: capitalize on an opponent's error. See Synonyms at benefit.

Related Forms: