in ‧ ter ‧ nal W2 AC /ɪnˈtɜːnl $ -ɜːr-/ BrE AmE adjective [usually before noun]
[ Word Family: adverb : ↑ externally ≠ ↑ internally ; adjective : ↑ external ≠ ↑ internal ]
[ Word Family: adverb : ↑ internally ≠ ↑ externally ; adjective : ↑ internal ≠ ↑ external ]
[ Date: 1400-1500 ; Language: Medieval Latin ; Origin: internalis , from Latin internus 'inward, inside' ]
1 . within a particular country SYN domestic OPP external :
We have no interest in interfering in the internal affairs of other countries.
the threat to internal security
internal markets
2 . within a company or organization rather than outside it OPP external :
There’s to be an internal inquiry into the whole affair.
the internal mail
3 . inside your body OPP external
internal organs/injuries
4 . inside something rather than outside OPP external :
They’ve knocked down a couple of internal walls.
5 . existing in your mind SYN inner :
internal doubts
—internally adverb :
The matter will be dealt with internally.
This medicine must not be taken internally.