This verb will leave an imprint on your vocabulary; it comes from the Latin word “inculcare,” which roughly translates as “to tread into.” The act of instilling a particular idea, habit, or attitude into another person is similar to leaving a footprint behind in the soft earth — it creates a guide to rely on for future behavior. The two definitions aren’t very different from each other, but the first implies leading by example or guidance, and the second refers to direct teaching.