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

Over time, patients begin to internalize the uncertainty. —Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 12 May 2026

The surest way to achieve that is by reading us regularly to internalize the tone and perspectives typical of our articles. —Vulture Editors, Vulture, 12 May 2026

Erik Isakson | Digitalvision | Getty Images Dan Diorio, vice president for state policy at the Data Center Coalition, a trade association, said the industry is committed to guardrails such as internalizing electricity costs and efficient water use. —Caleigh Keating, CNBC, 24 Apr. 2026

In a world where performances are often amplified, Ranbir internalizes. —Ayushmann Khurrana, Time, 15 Apr. 2026

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