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
1
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."
2
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 notesIn 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
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- instills
- Past tense
- instilled
Fill the gap
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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").
Related words
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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