inset

1 of 2

noun

in·​set ˈin-ˌset 

1

a

: a place where something flows in : channel

b

: a setting or flowing in

2

: something that is inset: such as

a

: a small graphic representation (such as a map or picture) set within a larger one

b

: a piece of cloth set into a garment (as for decoration)

c

: a part or section of a utensil that fits into an outer part

inset

2 of 2

verb

in·​set ˈin-ˌset 

in-ˈset

inset or insetted; insetting

transitive verb

1

: set in

especially : to insert within something else in such a way as to be visible

2

: to provide with an inset

Examples of inset in a Sentence

Noun

The floor is decorated with an inset of marble tiles.

velvet dresses with silk insets

Verb

inset a map in a larger map

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

There were also versions done in cotton voile with lace insets and cropped at the knee, and swishier ones in silk with lace edges. —Laia Garcia-Furtado, Vogue, 26 Sep. 2024

Consider an olive green field jacket that’s cropped at the hip with a voluminous cape-like inset in the back. —Laia Garcia-Furtado, Vogue, 11 June 2024

Verb

But a four-piece band and pair of backing singers did their part Monday, stationed within pits inset into the stage and occasionally venturing out. —Brian McCollum, Detroit Free Press, 8 Oct. 2024

The options on the test truck are: the TRD Off Road Premium Package with a 5 foot bed for $8,800, the stabilizer disconnect mechanism for $1,230, the bed mat for $200, the trailer hitch ball mount for $70, and the tailgate inset in Gun Metal gray for $89. —Tony Leopardo, The Mercury News, 11 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1559, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Verb

1658, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

inset

1 of 2 noun

in·​set ˈin-ˌset 

: something that is inset: as

a

: a small map or picture set within a larger one

b

: a piece of cloth set into a garment for decoration

inset

2 of 2 verb

in·​set ˈin-ˌset 

in-ˈset

inset or insetted; insetting

: insert entry 1 sense 2