<p><strong>Verb</strong></p><ul><li>(used with object)</li><li>com·part·men·tal·ized</li><li>com·part·men·tal·iz·ing</li><li>to divide into separate and isolated categories, sections, areas, or compartments: compartment</li><li>Instead of compartmentalizing tasks, employees can be trained broadly.</li><li>Psychology. to mentally separate or set aside (one’s incompatible or negative emotions, beliefs, or behaviors): Unfortunately, the experiences at work are not easily compartmentalized—they stay with the nurses and affect every aspect of their lives.</li><li>Ripley, a serial killer, has the capacity to compartmentalize his thoughts, push his conscience conveniently aside, in order to live with himself.</li></ul>