externalize

verb

ex·​ter·​nal·​ize ek-ˈstər-nə-ˌlīz 

externalized; externalizing

transitive verb

1

: to make external or externally manifest

2

: to attribute to causes outside the self : rationalize

externalized his lack of ability to succeed

Synonyms of externalize

• embody
• express
• incorporate
• manifest
• body
• symbolize
• personalize

Examples of externalize in a Sentence

an actress with an expressive face that wonderfully externalizes a wide range of emotions

Recent Examples on the Web

The desire to fit in is a powerful instinct, one that is externalized to varying degrees in our manners and relationships. — E. Alex Jung, Vulture, 8 Sep. 2026

This is good for the introvert because the idea can be explored and externalized gradually in a relatively low pressure space. — Paul Jones, Scientific American, 7 Sep. 2026

Making the boss a literal monster was a way to externalize all of those fears. — Jennifer Maas, Variety, 31 Aug. 2026

The savings from externalizing costs—for example, keeping farmers poor, letting soils deplete, clearing forests—are now lower than the benefits of internalizing value—for example, training farmers, restoring ecosystems, paying a living income. — Santiago Gowland, Forbes.com, 10 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1852, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for externalize

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

Medical Definition

externalize

transitive verb

ex·​ter·​nal·​ize

variants or British externalise

ek-ˈstərn-ᵊl-ˌīz 

externalized or British externalised; externalizing or British externalising

1

a

: to transform from a mental image into an apparently real object (as in hallucinations) : attribute (a mental image) to external causation

externalizing an obsession

b

: to invent an explanation for (an inner problem whose actual basis is known only subconsciously) by attributing to causes outside the self : rationalize, project

externalized his failure

2

: to direct outward socially

externalized her anger

externalization noun

or British externalisation

-ˌstərn-ᵊl-ə-ˈzā-shən