in case

1 of 2

conjunction

1
: as a precaution against the event that
carries an umbrella in case it rains
2
: if
In case we are surprised, keep by me.Washington Irving

in case

2 of 2

phrase

: as a precaution
took an umbrella, just in case

Examples of in case in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Conjunction
You're also given a 5-year limited warranty that covers you in case something happens to it. George Yang, PC Magazine, 28 Mar. 2026 Travelers should still give themselves plenty of pad time at any airport, just in case. Eve Chen, USA Today, 27 Mar. 2026 Dillon is here to compete for a short-yardage role and serve as insurance in case Brooks suffers a setback in camp. Mike Kaye march 26, Charlotte Observer, 26 Mar. 2026 Making matters worse is that water managers must be conservative, just in case snowpack in 2027 sets a new record low and our reservoirs start half empty next year. The Denver Post Editorial Board, Denver Post, 26 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for in case

Word History

First Known Use

Conjunction

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of in case was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“In case.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20case. Accessed 31 Mar. 2026.

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