burn-in

1 of 2

noun

: the continuous operation of a device (such as a computer) as a test for defects or failure prior to putting it to use

burn in

2 of 2

verb

burned in or burnt in; burning in; burns in

transitive verb

: to increase the density of (portions of a photographic print) during enlarging by giving extra exposure

Examples of burn-in in a Sentence

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
But in terms of preventing burn-in, flying toasters were no better than a blank screen. Chris Stirewalt, The Hill, 30 May 2025 The monitor has several burn-in protections, including one that automatically detects and lowers the local brightness of static elements. Quentyn Kennemer, The Verge, 27 Jan. 2025
Verb
After investigating, deputies found dog remains in a fire that was burning in the woman’s front yard, officials said. Jennifer Rodriguez, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 22 May 2025 It’s burned in homes, worn on skin and floats in the air of social spaces. Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 21 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for burn-in

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1966, in the meaning defined above

Verb

circa 1939, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of burn-in was circa 1939

Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Burn-in.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/burn-in. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

burn-in

noun
: the continuous operation of a device (as a computer) as a test for defects or failure prior to putting it to use
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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