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

That's also the message he said he wants the trans community to internalize on Trans Day of Visibility.

From Salon • Mar. 31, 2025

This helps students internalize the beat and phrases of the song.

From "Music and the Child" by Natalie Sarrazin