instill

American  

[in-stil] / ɪnˈstɪl /

especially British, instil

verb (used with object)

instilled, instilling

1. to infuse slowly or gradually into the mind or feelings; insinuate; inject.

   to instill courtesy in a child.

   Synonyms:

   introduce, inculcate

2. to put in drop by drop.

---

Other Word Forms

• instiller noun
• instillment noun
• preinstill verb (used with object)

Etymology

Origin of instill

First recorded in 1525–35; from Latin instillāre, equivalent to in- in- ² + stillāre “to drip”; distill

Example Sentences

Encouraging children to play games online at an early age instills in them the need to be online constantly.

From The Wall Street Journal

He said it was instilled in him to cook from the heart because "you can taste the love in the food" and not to "cook in a bad mood – because you'll taste that anger".

From BBC

While the war in Iran lately has instilled volatility in the market, the software selloff began in earnest at the end of January.

From Barron's

We’ve worked hard for 18 years to instill a strong work ethic and teach budgeting skills, and I don’t want to see that undone.

From MarketWatch

He instilled confidence in me and made me believe I could achieve anything.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• diffuse
• disseminate
• engender
• imbue
• impart
• inculcate
• inject
• inspire