in situ

adverb or adjective

in si·​tu (ˌ)in-ˈsī-(ˌ)tü 

-ˈsi-,

-(ˌ)tyü 

 also  -ˈsē-,

-(ˌ)chü 

: in the natural or original position or place

an in situ cancer confined to the breast duct

Examples of in situ in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Miguel Molina, like Cuesta a young coach, 32, who is closer in age to the players and can bring a different kind of connection, remain in situ. —Amy Lawrence, New York Times, 19 June 2025

In recent years, many researchers have been focused on DCIS: ductal carcinoma in situ, the earliest stage of cancer that in most cases remains in the milk ducts and does not invade other tissues. —Alice Park, TIME, 12 Dec. 2024

The revival requires Burnett to tour the cultural capitals, and to talk about the film and therefore his life in situ, as if life did not present its trials after. —Doreen St. Félix, New Yorker, 14 June 2025

Finally, Simonetti inlayed dark mother-of-pearl when the unit was in situ. —Nicole Trilivas, Forbes.com, 26 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin, in position

First Known Use

1740, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for in situ

• amadou
• avenue
• ballyhoo
• baraboo
• barbecue
• barbeque
• bugaboo
• cabildo
• caribou
• cockatoo
• detinue
• devalue

Kids Definition

in situ

adverb or adjective

in si·​tu (ˈ)in-ˈsī-t(y)ü 

-ˈsi-

: in the natural or original position

the cancer cells remained in situ

Etymology

Latin, "in position"

Medical Definition

in situ

adverb or adjective

in si·​tu

(ˈ)in-ˈsī-(ˌ)t(y)ü, -ˈsi- also -ˈsē-, -(ˌ)chü

: in the natural or original position or place

an in situ cancer confined to the breast duct

see carcinoma in situ