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.

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

instill fear:

to create fear in someone gradually

instill values:

to teach values or beliefs gradually

instill confidence:

to gradually build someone's confidence

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.