immanent

/ˈɪmənənt/

Other forms: immanently

Something immanent is inherent in and spread throughout something else — it's innate, intrinsic and inborn. Philosophers might debate about whether generosity is an immanent trait or something that people are taught.

In addition to referring to something inherent or intrinsic, the word immanent can also describe something that is totally mental. Both meanings of this word have to do with internal things. Sometimes, immanent means a quality that is essential to something. Psychologists claim the need to love and be loved is an immanent trait of human beings — we all have it. Some people think there is an immanent spirit or force in nature. Also, immanent things are ideas and feelings that only exist in your mind — they remain within. If you keep your ideas to yourself, they’re immanent.

Definitions of immanent

1. adjective

   of qualities that are spread throughout something
   “ambition is immanent in human nature”

   “we think of God as immanent in nature”

   synonyms:

   distributive

   serving to distribute or allot or disperse
2. adjective

   of a mental act performed entirely within the mind
   “a cognition is an immanent act of mind”

   synonyms: subjective

   antonyms:

   transeunt

   of a mental act; causing effects outside the mind