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.
The above truths would be worthwhile ones for Energy secretary Chris Wright to internalize. John Tamny, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025 Research shows that children who internalize their parents' rules are often more socially competent and better adjusted.3 These children tend to understand moral concepts and handle social situations more effectively. Miriam Foley, Parents, 11 Mar. 2025 The British Zambian writer-director’s new story, however, is more psychologically concentrated on individual pain and cultural power, specifically the damage that sin and silence wreak in matriarchal societies that internalize patriarchy. Robert Abele, Los Angeles Times, 7 Mar. 2025 Why protein is so important Most people have already internalized the importance of a protein-rich diet: Protein supports the body in building and repairing muscles, skin, and organs and helps in the production of enzymes and hormones that control our metabolism and immune system. Desireé Oostland, Vogue, 5 Mar. 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 19 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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