ingrown

adjective

in·​grown ˈin-ˌgrōn 

1

: grown in

specifically : having the free tip or edge embedded in the flesh

an ingrown toenail

2

: having the direction of growth or activity or interest inward rather than outward

… swarms of ingrown, infighting bureaucracies …

—H. R. Cilley

ingrownness

(ˌ)in-ˈgrōn-nəs 

noun

Examples of ingrown in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Regular exfoliation between sessions can also help minimize the risk of ingrown hairs. — Iman Balagam, Vogue, 17 July 2026

Massage it on rough, bumpy patches and areas prone to ingrown hairs for brighter, smoother, healthier-looking skin. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 9 July 2026

Patel steers clear of tight synthetic fabrics, especially underwear, which can set you up for rashes, ingrown hairs, and yeast infections. — Angela Haupt, Time, 7 July 2026

Ideally, opt for fragrance-free formulas, particularly if your skin is prone to irritation, eczema, or ingrown hairs. — Emma-Jade Stoddart, Glamour, 5 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1670, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for ingrown

• alone
• atone
• backbone
• bemoan
• bluestone
• breastbone
• brownstone
• capstone
• cheekbone
• condone
• curbstone
• cyclone

Kids Definition

ingrown

adjective

in·​grown ˈin-ˌgrōn 

: grown in

especially : having the free tip or edge grown back into the flesh

an ingrown toenail

Medical Definition

ingrown

adjective

in·​grown ˈin-ˌgrōn 

: grown in

specifically : having the normally free tip or edge embedded in the flesh

an ingrown toenail