internalize

verb

in·​ter·​nal·​ize in-ˈtər-nə-ˌlīz 

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

in-ˌtər-nə-lə-ˈzā-shən 

noun

Examples of internalize in a Sentence

They have internalized their parents' values.

Recent Examples on the Web

One that many Californians seem to be internalizing. Take homelessness, a deeply complex and visible crisis. —Deandre Evans, Mercury News, 25 June 2025

It could be considered a sign of ambivalence toward her mirror image, or the body image created through internalizing the gaze of the other. —Rosemary Feitelberg, Footwear News, 24 June 2025

When leadership makes room for bold ideas and shows up in the trenches during tough times, teams internalize that risk is safe and even necessary. —Rhett Power, Forbes.com, 22 June 2025

Ray internalized Wilson’s love of car culture and masculine bravado in a perfect response to his child’s need for protection. —Armond White, National Review, 18 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1794, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for internalize

• actualize
• antagonize
• apologise
• apologize
• capitalize
• categorize
• characterize
• commercialize
• conceptualize
• contrariwise
• criminalize
• decentralize

Medical Definition

internalize

transitive verb

in·​ter·​nal·​ize

variants or chiefly British internalise

in-ˈtərn-ᵊl-ˌīz 

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

-ˌtərn-ᵊl-ə-ˈzā-shən