1
a
: inside (a certain area or space)
They live within the city limits.
within the country's borders
The company's most important decisions are made within these four walls. [=inside this room]
We could hear sounds coming from within his apartment.
b
: inside (a group, company, society, etc.)
Reports from within the company indicate a change in policy.
Divisions within the party [=disagreements between members of the party] are growing.
2
: before the end of (a particular period of time)
Most students find a job within a year of graduating.
Scientists predict that a cure will be found within (the next) five years.
She made several friends within days of moving into her new apartment.
He entered the house, and within seconds, he was surrounded by children.
We should know the results of your test within the space of an hour. [=in an hour or less]
3
: less than (a particular distance) from something or someone
Everything I need is within a few miles of my apartment.
The school is within walking distance (of our house).
Everything is within easy reach. [=nearby]
I keep my dictionary within reach [=close enough to reach] on my desk.
The hotel is within sight of the ocean. [=you can see the ocean from the hotel]
4
: not beyond the limits of (something)
They encourage living within your means/income and not using credit cards excessively.
Let's try to stay within our/the budget.
It is within the jurisdiction of the state to make such laws.
Their actions fell within the guidelines [=they were acceptable according to the rules] set by the committee.
It is within the realm of possibility [=it is possible], but it is not likely.
5
—used to say how close someone is or was to doing or achieving something
She is currently within two hundred votes of being elected.
Twice this season, they have come within five points of winning. [=they have lost by five or fewer points]
6
: in the thoughts or character of (someone)
She searched within herself for the truth.
The problem lies not with other people but within yourself. [=you are the problem]
formal
1
: inside something
We could hear sounds coming from within.
The sign on the door says "Help Wanted: Inquire Within."
2
: in someone's inner thoughts, feelings, etc.
We all try to appear strong and attempt to hide the scared little child within.
They were outwardly calm but nervous within.
The truth lies within.
Cite this Entry
“Within.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/within. Accessed 14 Apr. 2026.
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