Definition of "institutionalized" in English

verb

1. simple past and past participle of institutionalize

adjective

1. Having been established as an institution.

   • It is very difficult to get bureaucracies to abandon their institutionalized practices.

2. Having been committed to an institution, such as a prison or an insane asylum.

   • Once a potential employer learns that you've been institutionalized, you can forget about getting the job.

3. (psychology) Having become dependent after a long time in, and unable to function outside of an institution, especially a prison.