inset

1 of 2

noun

in·​set ˈin-ˌset How to pronounce inset (audio)
1
a
: a place where something flows in : channel
b
: a setting or flowing in
2
: something that is inset: such as
a
: a small graphic representation (such as a map or picture) set within a larger one
b
: a piece of cloth set into a garment (as for decoration)
c
: a part or section of a utensil that fits into an outer part

inset

2 of 2

verb

in·​set ˈin-ˌset How to pronounce inset (audio)
in-ˈset
inset or insetted; insetting

transitive verb

1
: set in
especially : to insert within something else in such a way as to be visible
2
: to provide with an inset

Examples of inset in a Sentence

Noun The floor is decorated with an inset of marble tiles. velvet dresses with silk insets Verb inset a map in a larger map
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
Madigan-Curtis sees big upside in trading offsets for insets. Nick Rockel, Fortune, 1 Nov. 2024 By replicating the graphic novel’s approach three-dimensionally, Zemeckis’ film becomes like a living diorama with insets providing windows into the past and future. David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 3 Sep. 2019
Verb
Businesses need to transition away from fossil fuels, increase organic coffee purchases, and shift from offsetting to insetting by investing directly in their supply chain. Christopher Marquis, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024 Shaker cabinets inset with mauve pink grass cloth and outfitted with vintage brass swan pulls stand opposite a spacious marble vanity inspired by her mother’s. Mel Studach, Architectural Digest, 29 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for inset 

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1559, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Verb

1658, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of inset was in 1559

Dictionary Entries Near inset

Cite this Entry

“Inset.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inset. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

inset

1 of 2 noun
in·​set ˈin-ˌset How to pronounce inset (audio)
: something that is inset: as
a
: a small map or picture set within a larger one
b
: a piece of cloth set into a garment for decoration

inset

2 of 2 verb
in·​set ˈin-ˌset How to pronounce inset (audio)
in-ˈset
inset or insetted; insetting

More from Merriam-Webster on inset

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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