instill

ihn-STIHL

Instill (verb) means to gradually establish an idea, feeling, or value in someone's mind so it becomes part of who they are. Example: “Her parents instilled a strong work ethic in her from a young age.”

verb

To gradually establish an idea, feeling, or value in someone's mind so it becomes part of who they are.

"Her parents instilled a strong work ethic in her from a young age."

"Good coaches instill confidence as much as skill."

To add a liquid slowly, drop by drop, often for medical purposes.

"The nurse instilled the eye drops carefully."

How to use instill

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo plant a lasting quality or belief in someone, bit by bit.

Common pairings

instill confidence instill values instill fear instill a sense of

Word forms

instilled past tense, instills singular

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Her parents _____ a strong work ethic in her from a young age.

Etymology

From Latin instillare, "to pour in drop by drop" — from in- ("in") + stilla ("a drop").

Origin: Latin

Synonyms

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impress infuse tincture impregnate instil ingrain transfuse inculcate

Related words

color strike shadow tone impress dye brew imprint

Frequently asked questions

What does “instill” mean?

The word “instill” means to gradually establish an idea, feeling, or value in someone's mind so it becomes part of who they are. In plain terms, to plant a lasting quality or belief in someone, bit by bit.

How do you pronounce “instill”?

“Instill” is pronounced ihn-STIHL (/ɪnˈstɪl/ in IPA).

How do you use “instill” in a sentence?

Here is “instill” used in a sentence: “Her parents instilled a strong work ethic in her from a young age.”

What part of speech is “instill”?

“Instill” is a verb.

Where does the word “instill” come from?

The word “instill” comes from Latin. From Latin instillare, "to pour in drop by drop" — from in- ("in") + stilla ("a drop").

How many meanings does “instill” have?

“Instill” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to gradually establish an idea, feeling, or value in someone's mind so it becomes part of who they are.

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