1. Conversion of noncash assets into cash assets.
2. Tax. An event or transaction, such as the sale or exchange of property, that substantially changes a taxpayer’s economic position so that income tax may be imposed or a tax allowance granted. Cf. RECOGNITION(4). [Cases: Internal Revenue 3115, 3178; Taxation 996. C.J.S. Internal Revenue §§ 61, 110; Taxation §§ 1732–1733.] — realize, vb.