Instill

/ɪnˈstɪl/

Meaning & Definition

verb
To gradually but firmly establish an idea or attitude in a person's mind.
The teacher aims to instill a love for reading in her students.
To introduce or impart a quality or feeling into someone or something.
The camp is designed to instill confidence and teamwork in young athletes.
To put a substance into something, usually in a slow or gentle manner.
You should instill the medication into the ear canal slowly.

Etymology

Late Middle English: from in- 'into' + still (in the sense 'to place').

Common Phrases and Expressions

instill fear
to create fear in someone gradually
instill values
to teach values or beliefs gradually
instill confidence
to gradually build someone's confidence

Related Words

inculcate
to teach and impress by frequent repetition
impart
to make (information) known
inject
to introduce something into something else

Slang Meanings

to drill into someone
He's trying to instill discipline in his kids, really drilling it into them.
to brainwash
Some think they can instill their own views into others as a form of brainwashing.