internalize

American  

[in-tur-nl-ahyz] / ɪnˈtɜr nlˌaɪz /

especially British, internalise

verb (used with object)

internalized, internalizing

1. to incorporate (the cultural values, mores, motives, etc., of another or of a group), as through learning, socialization, or identification.

2. to make subjective or give a subjective character to.

3. Linguistics. to acquire (a linguistic rule, structure, etc.) as part of one's language competence.

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internalize British  

/ ɪnˈtɜːnəˌlaɪz /

verb

1. Also: interiorize.  (tr) psychol sociol to make internal, esp to incorporate within oneself (values, attitudes, etc) through learning or socialization Compare introject

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Other Word Forms

• internalization noun
• quasi-internalized adjective
• semi-internalized adjective
• uninternalized adjective

Etymology

Origin of internalize

First recorded in 1940–45; internal + -ize

Example Sentences

“They are unavoidable. You cannot internalize them and let them chip away at your self-worth.”

From MarketWatch • Feb. 28, 2026

It’s important to do your own research and internalize why you own a stock.

From Barron's • Feb. 4, 2026

I talked with Stancil this week about the current state of Twitter, his experience there, and what Democrats should internalize about social media.

From Slate • Nov. 6, 2025

“One of the reasons that economists really like this bill is that it would actually internalize the cost,” Brown said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 7, 2025

It’s one thing to carve the Psi symbol into the side of buildings and string up banners over porches, but to actually internalize the message?

From "The Darkest Minds" by Alexandra Bracken