Interning Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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interning

[ˈɪnˌtɜrnɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

work experience

Interning refers to the practice of working as an intern, typically in order to gain practical experience in a specific field or industry. Internships can be paid or unpaid and may vary in duration. These opportunities are often pursued by students or recent graduates eager to learn and enhance their resumes.

Synonyms

apprenticing, practicing, shadowing.

Examples of usage

  • She is interning at a marketing firm this summer.
  • He spent his gap year interning abroad.
  • Many students are interning while completing their studies.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'intern' originated from the French word 'interne,' meaning 'internal' or 'inside,' which reflected students' internal training within medical fields.
  • Internships began gaining popularity in the early 20th century as a formal step for new doctors to practice under supervision.

Education

  • Internships are often a requirement in educational programs, especially in fields like medicine, law, engineering, and media.
  • Many universities now offer dedicated internship programs to help students find placements that fit their career goals.

Workplace Culture

  • Interns can provide fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, making them valuable to companies, especially in creative industries.
  • Companies that invest in intern programs usually build their talent pipeline, nurturing future employees before they graduate.

Economic Impact

  • Internships have been linked to increased employment rates, as many interns receive job offers from companies they intern for after graduation.
  • The rise of gig economy platforms has made it easier for companies to offer internships remotely, broadening access.

Global Perspectives

  • In some countries, internships are viewed as essential for entering the workforce, while in others, they may be seen as unpaid exploitation.
  • Cultural attitudes towards internships vary worldwide; for example, European countries often have more structured internship programs with regulations.

Origin of 'interning'

The term 'intern' originates from the late 19th century, derived from the French word 'interne', which means 'internal'. It initially referred to a medical trainee or a student who works in a hospital as part of their educational process. Over time, the usage of the term expanded into various professional fields, emphasizing the hands-on training aspect. By the mid-20th century, the concept of internships became more formalized in various industries, including business, media, and technology. The growing emphasis on real-world experience in education has led to the widespread acceptance and incorporation of internships into academic programs, making 'interning' a common practice for students and job seekers alike.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,087, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.