I. (ˈ)in.|tərn ə l, ən.ˈt-, -tə̄n-, -təin- adjective
Etymology: Latin intern us internal (from inter between) + English -al — more at inter-
1.
a. : existing or situated within the limits or surface of something : inward , interior
internal structure
internal parts of the body
internal regions of the earth
internal mechanism of a toy
internal funds of a business
— opposed to external
b. : situated near the inside of the body
internal layer of abdominal muscle
: situated on the side toward the median plane of the body
the internal surface of the lung
2. : capable of being applied through the stomach by being swallowed
internal remedy
internal stimulant
3. : relating to the inner being or consciousness : belonging to or existing within the mind : subjective
internal monologue
: private
internal opinion
internal resentment
internal sensations
4. : originating in or dependent on the thing itself : belonging to the mutual relations of the parts of a thing : intrinsic , inherent
internal evidence of forgery in a document
test a theory for internal consistency
5.
a. : present or performed within an organism
internal senses
internal speech
b. : arising within a sense organ
internal stimulus
6. : of or relating to the domestic affairs or administrative functions of a country or state
internal commerce
internal discord
internal improvement
internal debt
Synonyms: see inner
II. noun
( -s )
1. internals plural : the internal organs of the body : innards
2.
a. : an inner or essential quality or property
b. obsolete : spiritual nature : soul