inset

1 of 2

noun

in·​set ˈin-ˌset How to pronounce inset (audio)
Synonyms of insetnext
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 How to pronounce inset (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
Ceramics fill inset shelves in the kitchen. — Marissa Gluck, Los Angeles Times, 26 June 2026 However, inset cabinets can look out of place in a very modern home. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 25 Apr. 2026
Verb
Will inset cabinets increase the value of your home? — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 25 Apr. 2026 However, some people find two-wheel luggage more durable since the two wheels are usually inset further than four-wheel luggage. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 7 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for inset

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1559, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Verb

1658, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of inset was in 1559

Rhymes for inset

See All Rhymes for inset

Browse Nearby Words

insessorial
inset
insetter
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Inset.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inset. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

inset

1 of 2 noun
in·​set ˈin-ˌset How to pronounce inset (audio)
: 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 How to pronounce inset (audio)
in-ˈset
inset or insetted; insetting
: insert entry 1 sense 2

More from Merriam-Webster on inset

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for inset

Nglish: Translation of inset for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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