internalize

[ in-tur-nl-ahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, in·ter·nal·ized, in·ter·nal·iz·ing.

1. to incorporate (the cultural values, mores, motives, etc., of another or of a group), as through learning, socialization, or identification.
2. to make subjective or give a subjective character to.
3. Linguistics. to acquire (a linguistic rule, structure, etc.) as part of one's language competence.

internalize

/ ɪnˈtɜːnəˌlaɪz /

verb

1. tr psychol sociol to make internal, esp to incorporate within oneself (values, attitudes, etc) through learning or socialization Alsointeriorize Compare introject

Derived Forms

• inˌternaliˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• in·ter·nal·i·za·tion [in-tur-nl-ahy-, zey, -sh, uh, n] especially British, in·ter·nal·i·sa·tion noun
• qua·si-in·ter·nal·ized especially British, qua·si-in·ter·nal·ised adjective
• sem·i-in·ter·nal·ized especially British, sem·i-in·ter·nal·ised adjective
• un·in·ter·nal·ized especially British, un·in·ter·nal·ised adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of internalize¹

First recorded in 1940–45; internal + -ize

Example Sentences

“I had a lot of anger, sadness and isolation, but I’d just internalize and go to the gym or go out running,” said Decter.

From Los Angeles Times

Eventually, most Americans will internalize the cultural logic of Trumpism and fascism and begin to self-police and conform — and enforce the new order against their family members, friends, neighbors, and strangers.

From Salon

“I understand why someone who discovered the band early on saw them in little bars, and heard ‘Murmur,’ and internalized those early albums as the apex of their sound,” says Carlin.

From Los Angeles Times

“Plus, the old Japanese male thing about internalizing everything and never showing emotion.”

From Los Angeles Times

Less than two weeks from now, we will find out whether Americans are more wedded to their internalized sexism than their democratic principles.

From Salon