The word "externalize" is spelled with nine letters and pronounced as /ɪkˈstɜr.nəl.aɪz/. The first syllable is pronounced as "ik" with the vowel sound "ɪ", followed by "st" with the consonant blend "skt". The second syllable is pronounced as "urn" with the vowel sound "ɜr" and "əl" with the vowel sound "ə" followed by "aɪz" with the diphthong "aɪ" and the "z" sound. The spelling of the word reflects its meaning: to make something external or visible.
Externalize is a verb that refers to the act of expressing or representing something in an outward manner, especially in relation to personal thoughts, feelings, or experiences. It denotes the process of turning internal ideas or concepts into visible or tangible forms. When individuals externalize their thoughts, they give them a visible or audible form that can be shared with others.
In psychology, externalization is a defense mechanism wherein a person attributes their own internal feelings, desires, or characteristics to external factors or individuals. It is a way of avoiding personal responsibility or acknowledging one's own contribution to a situation. By externalizing, individuals may tend to blame circumstances or other people for their own actions, thus relieving themselves of guilt or accountability.
In a broader sense, externalize can also refer to the act of outsourcing or delegating tasks or functions of an organization to external entities or individuals. Companies may externalize certain operations or services to reduce costs, increase efficiency, or tap into specialized expertise that might not be available within their own organization.
Additionally, in computer science and programming, externalize refers to the process of storing data or information outside the main program, often in separate files or databases. This allows for modularity, easier maintenance, and flexibility in managing data. Externalization of data facilitates scalability and integration of various systems.
The word "externalize" is derived from the combination of two Latin roots: "externus" meaning "outward,” "outlying", or "external", and "alis" meaning "pertaining to" or "characterized by".
The Latin root "externus" originated from the word "exter" meaning "outer" or "outside". In Early Latin, it was used to describe something located outside or far from a particular place or person. Over time, it evolved to encompass the broader sense of anything that is external or beyond the scope of a given system or entity.
The Latin root "alis" is a suffix used to form adjectives. It often indicates possession or relation. In combination with "externus", it creates the adjective "externalis", which means "pertaining or relating to the outside" or "of or pertaining to externals or outward appearances".