Definition of in
1 a
—used as a function word to indicate inclusion, location, or position within limits
- in the lake
- wounded in the leg
- in the summer
b
: into 1
- went in the house
2
—used as a function word to indicate means, medium, or instrumentality
- written in pencil
- bound in leather
3 a
—used as a function word to indicate limitation, qualification, or circumstance
- alike in some respects
- left in a hurry
b
: into 2a
- broke in pieces
4
—used as a function word to indicate purpose
- said in reply
5
—used as a function word to indicate the larger member of a ratio
- one in six is eligible
