Instilling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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instilling

[ษชnหˆstษชlษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

teaching concept

Instilling refers to the process of gradually imparting a particular idea, attitude, or habit to someone, especially over a period of time. It often happens through consistent teaching or influence. This term is frequently used in educational, familial, and social contexts.

Synonyms

implanting, inculcating, introducing, intruding.

Examples of usage

  • The teacher is instilling a love of reading in her students.
  • Parents play a crucial role in instilling values in their children.
  • The coach focuses on instilling discipline among the team members.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Education

  • Effective teaching often involves instilling a love for learning, motivating students to pursue knowledge independently.
  • Character education programs in schools focus on instilling positive traits such as honesty and respect in students.
  • Research shows that the early years of a child's life are critical for instilling foundational beliefs and attitudes.

Psychology

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy often aims at instilling positive thought patterns to combat negative behaviors.
  • Developing resilience in children is about instilling skills that help them deal with challenges and setbacks.
  • Social learning theory suggests that we instill behaviors in others by modeling appropriate actions ourselves.

Culture

  • Cultural values are often instilled through storytelling and traditions passed from one generation to the next.
  • Rituals and ceremonies in various cultures serve to instill important community beliefs and collective identity.
  • Globalization has led to a mix of cultures, influencing how values are instilled in younger generations.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers like John Dewey advocated for education that instills critical thinking rather than rote memorization.
  • The concept of 'moral education' emphasizes the importance of instilling ethical values in students.
  • Existentialists argue that individuals must choose which values to instill in themselves rather than accepting imposed beliefs.

Origin of 'instilling'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'instillare', which means 'to drip in', suggesting how values or ideas are gradually introduced.
  • Initially used in the 14th century, it referred to the slow introduction of concepts or ideas, much like how rain slowly fills a pond.
  • Its transition to a broader educational context occurred in the 20th century, emphasizing values and beliefs.

The word 'instill' originates from the Latin word 'instillare,' where 'in-' means 'in' and 'stillare' means 'to drop.' It initially conveyed the idea of dripping a liquid into something, which metaphorically extended to the notion of gradually introducing an idea or concept into someone's consciousness. The term has evolved in English usage to reflect a more abstract process of nurturing or imparting beliefs, principles, or qualities over time, often through repetition and example. It gained popularity in educational and psychological contexts, emphasizing the importance of gentle but persistent influence in shaping thoughts and behaviors.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,694, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.