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

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

Her performance highlights Virgo's tendency to internalize pressure and to constantly question their results, a central theme in Cassie's storyline. —Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 13 Apr. 2026

And so really just internalizing the degree to which the odds are stacked against you. —Torie Bosch, STAT, 11 Apr. 2026

Burden internalized this pattern, of foregrounding the importance of the paterfamilias at the expense of real intimacy, of keeping up appearances despite the private pain. —Marc Weingarten, Los Angeles Times, 31 Mar. 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