include

verb

in·​clude in-ˈklüd How to pronounce include (audio)
included; including

transitive verb

1
: to take in or comprise as a part of a whole or group
2
: to contain between or within
two sides and the included angle
3
: to shut up : enclose
includable adjective
or includible
Choose the Right Synonym for include

include, comprehend, embrace, involve mean to contain within as part of the whole.

include suggests the containment of something as a constituent, component, or subordinate part of a larger whole.

the price of dinner includes dessert

comprehend implies that something comes within the scope of a statement or definition.

his system comprehends all history

embrace implies a gathering of separate items within a whole.

her faith embraces both Christian and non-Christian beliefs

involve suggests inclusion by virtue of the nature of the whole, whether by being its natural or inevitable consequence.

the new job involves a lot of detail

Example Sentences

The speakers will include several experts on the subject. The price of dinner includes dessert. Admission to the museum is included in the tour package. The results came in too late for us to include them in the study.
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These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'include.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin includere, from in- + claudere to close — more at close entry 1

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Time Traveler
The first known use of include was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near include

Cite this Entry

“Include.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/include. Accessed 3 Jun. 2023.

Kids Definition

include

verb
in·​clude in-ˈklüd How to pronounce include (audio)
included; including
: to take in or have as part of a whole or group
the recipe included many ingredients
includable adjective
or includible

More from Merriam-Webster on include

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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