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

From the circular window on the second story to the rectangular inset windows on the lower level, the clapboard-siding exterior gives a modern twist on farmhouse style. —Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Apr. 2026

The gourmet kitchen has inset cabinetry, beam ceilings, an expansive island, a professional six-burner dual-oven range, dual dishwashers and a custom pizza oven. —Kaitlyn Keegan, Hartford Courant, 28 Feb. 2026

Verb

The gourmet kitchen has inset cabinetry, beam ceilings, an expansive island, a professional six-burner dual-oven range, dual dishwashers and a custom pizza oven. —Kaitlyn Keegan, Hartford Courant, 28 Feb. 2026

Oval Glass Doors That front door with an oval glass inset? —Angelika Pokovba, Martha Stewart, 22 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1559, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Verb

1658, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for inset

• abet
• asset
• baguette
• banquette
• barbette
• beget
• beset
• brevet
• briquette
• brunet
• brunette
• burette

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