What does implanting mean?
Implanting is the -ing form of the verb implant. In its primary sense, it means placing a device, tissue, or other object inside a body, often as a medical procedure: surgeons may be implanting a pacemaker, an electrode, or a replacement valve. The word can also describe placing an object securely within another material, such as implanting a seed in soil. In figurative use, implanting means establishing an idea, belief, or practice so deeply that it becomes difficult to dislodge, as in implanting a new attitude in a community. The word is most often associated with medicine, technology, and biology, but it can be used metaphorically for education, persuasion, and institutional change. Its vivid underlying image is that of planting something so securely that it can grow and become established. It is a useful term when the placement is deliberate, permanent or relatively stable, and intended to produce a lasting effect.
To place a device, tissue, or other object inside a body or material, especially by means of a surgical operation.
"The medical team is implanting a cochlear implant in the patient's ear."
This is the usual technical and medical sense, especially when referring to devices or tissue placed inside the body.
To establish an idea, belief, practice, or influence firmly in someone's mind or in an organization.
"Good mentors focus on implanting confidence in their students."
This is a figurative use, suggesting that the idea becomes deeply rooted and lasting.
From planting a seed to placing a pacemaker in the chest, the same word describes putting something in place so that it can take root and grow.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does implanting come from?
The word implant comes through French from the Latin implantare, formed from in- and plantare, meaning to plant. The same Latin root underlies English words such as plant and plantation. In the medical sense, the word developed from the older practice of grafting or planting tissue into the body; by extension, it came to mean placing a manufactured device within the body. The figurative sense of establishing an idea or influence is based on the same metaphor of planting something that takes root.
Related word forms
How implanting is actually used
The medical sense is technical and commonly used in professional contexts. The second sense is more figurative and often implies making an idea or practice difficult to challenge.
Easily confused with implanting
Implanting means placing something inside a body or other material, whereas implementing means carrying out a plan, policy, or procedure.