externalizationsubstantiv The process of expressing or making something visible or tangible that was previously internal or hidden. The artist's work is an externalization of his innermost thoughts and emotions.
The act of attributing one's own internal thoughts, feelings, or motives to the outside world or to other people. Through externalization, she projected her fears onto her colleagues, believing they were the ones who were anxious.
The act of transferring a function or responsibility from within an organization to an outside entity. The company decided on the externalization of its IT services to reduce costs and focus on core activities.