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

As Hanan’s opening monologue suggests, the ensuing calamity has roots that stretch far back, not just to Israel’s initial takeover of Palestinian land but, also, in how the Hammads have internalized their fear and indignity. —Tim Grierson, Los Angeles Times, 9 Jan. 2026

The teachings Andrea internalized Andrea had written to Rachel in 1999 announcing Luke’s birth. —Isabella Wandermurem, Time, 6 Jan. 2026

Growing up, Klontz internalized some of that shame. —Veronica Bravo, USA Today, 5 Jan. 2026

But with his score for Josh Safdie’s whirlwind new Timothée Chalamet vehicle Marty Supreme, Lopatin has taken this woozy, internalizing effect and sent it outward. —Sam Goldner, Pitchfork, 23 Dec. 2025

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