: the continuous operation of a device (such as a computer) as a test for defects or failure prior to putting it to use
burned in or burnt in; burning in; burns in
: 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
K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 12 Sep. 2025
But in terms of preventing burn-in, flying toasters were no better than a blank screen.
—Chris Stirewalt, The Hill, 30 May 2025
Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 3 Mar. 2026
The reality is, many fires have burned in these mountains.
—Los Angeles Times, 2 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for burn-in
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
Pantone Validated ArtfulColor keeps these masterpieces looking realistic without screen burn-in.
—K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 12 Sep. 2025
But in terms of preventing burn-in, flying toasters were no better than a blank screen.
—Chris Stirewalt, The Hill, 30 May 2025
Verb
This is like a lemony incense stick burning in a bright, airy room with wide-open windows—citrusy, smoky, and so uplifting.
—Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 3 Mar. 2026
The reality is, many fires have burned in these mountains.
—Los Angeles Times, 2 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for burn-in
Cite this Entry
“Burn-in.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/burn-in. Accessed 9 Mar. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
