To modify or build according to individual requirements or preferences. To adapt something to suit particular needs or tastes.
From 'custom' meaning habitual practice, plus the suffix '-ize' meaning to make or cause to become. Emerged in mid-20th century as mass production created demand for personalization.
The rise of customization reflects a fundamental human psychological need for uniqueness and control in an increasingly standardized world. Companies now use 'mass customization' - automated systems that can personalize products at scale, giving customers the illusion of uniqueness while maintaining manufacturing efficiency.
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