in·ter·nal
in-ˈtər-nᵊl
ˈin-ˌtər-
1
: existing or situated within the limits or surface of something
a toy's internal mechanism
the internal structure of a planet
2
a
: situated or occurring inside the body
internal bleeding
internal organs
b
: moving or turning towards the center of the body
internal rotation of the shoulder
3
: of, relating to, or occurring within an organized entity (such as a state, company, or club)
the internal workings of the department
an internal memo [=a memo addressed to the people within the entity and not to the general public]
see also internal affairs
4
: relating or belonging to or existing within the mind
internal [=private] doubts
an internal monologue
5
6
: present or arising within an organism or one of its parts
internal stimuli such as hunger and thirst
7
: applied or intended for application through the stomach by being swallowed
an internal remedy
in·ter·nal·i·ty
ˌin(ˌ)tərˈnalətē
plural -es
: the quality or state of being internal : interiority
Cite this Entry
“Internal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/internal. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.
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