indentation

noun

in·​den·​ta·​tion ˌin-ˌden-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce indentation (audio)
1
a
: the blank space produced by indenting : indention sense 1a
a half-inch indentation
b
: the action of indenting
indentation of a line of text
: the condition of being indented
a paragraph set out by indentation
2
a
: an angular cut (such as a notch) or something resembling such a cut in an edge
indentations along the edge of a leaf
b
: a usually deep recess (as along a coastline)
a coastline with many indentations
3
: dent
Test [the fish] by depressing the flesh with a finger; it should spring back to its original shape leaving no indentation.Carole Sugarman

Examples of indentation in a Sentence

Our style guidelines call for indentation of the first line of each paragraph. a coastline with many indentations There were several small indentations in the surface of the table.
Recent Examples on the Web Eventually, the caverns’ ceilings might have collapsed, making the large indentations on the lakebed. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 16 Oct. 2024 That said, if the limes are so soft your fingers leave indentations, the fruit is probably overripe. Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 19 Sep. 2024 The handle is gently curved for a comfortable grip with a dull indentation at the base of the blade for cooks to rest their pointer fingers on for greater control. Lizzy Briskin, Peoplemag, 20 Sep. 2024 To help you out, there’s a little indentation on the license plate that indicates where that decal should go. Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 21 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for indentation 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'indentation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Time Traveler
The first known use of indentation was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near indentation

Cite this Entry

“Indentation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/indentation. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

indentation

noun
in·​den·​ta·​tion ˌin-ˌden-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce indentation (audio)
1
a
: an angular cut in an edge : notch
b
: a deep recess (as in a coastline)
2
a
: the action of indenting : the state of being indented
b
: a blank or empty space produced by indenting
3

More from Merriam-Webster on indentation

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