1. the process of directing or confining something (such as a river or stream) into a channel or narrow course
Usage: commonly used in environmental science and civil engineering
2. the act of directing energy, effort, or resources toward a particular purpose or goal
Usage: figurative use

Examples

• The channelization of the river reduced flooding in the nearby towns.
• Engineers studied the effects of channelization on fish migration patterns.
• The channelization of funds toward education improved school facilities.
• Wetland restoration projects often reverse previous channelization of streams.
• The company's channelization of resources into research and development paid off.
• Channelization of the creek altered the local ecosystem significantly.