internalize

verb

in·​ter·​nal·​ize in-ˈtər-nə-ˌlīz How to pronounce internalize (audio)
internalized; internalizing

transitive verb

: to give a subjective character to
specifically : to incorporate (values, patterns of culture, etc.) within the self as conscious or subconscious guiding principles through learning or socialization
internalization noun

Examples of internalize in a Sentence

They have internalized their parents' values.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Second, consider how your stakeholders are processing and internalizing your message. Jay Sullivan, Forbes, 1 Mar. 2025 Like, how do people get through these times and remain sensitive but find a buffer to not just internalize it all every day? Chris Willman, Variety, 26 Feb. 2025 Immigrants who have been discriminated against in everyday settings may internalize the expectation that seeking care will result in further hostility – or even danger. Consequences for public health U.S. history holds numerous examples of racial and ethnic barriers to health care. Deborah Omontese, The Conversation, 21 Feb. 2025 As a result, the models may be internalizing lessons of cooperation and consensus-building, seeing them as the norm rather than a 20th century anomaly. Tom Rogers, Newsweek, 21 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for internalize

Word History

First Known Use

1794, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of internalize was in 1794

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Cite this Entry

“Internalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/internalize. Accessed 9 Mar. 2025.

Medical Definition

internalize

transitive verb
in·​ter·​nal·​ize
variants or chiefly British internalise
internalized or chiefly British internalised; internalizing or chiefly British internalising
: to give a subjective character to
specifically : to incorporate (as values or patterns of culture) within the self as conscious or subconscious guiding principles through learning or socialization
internalization noun
or chiefly British internalisation
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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