burn-in

1 of 2

noun

: the continuous operation of a device (such as a computer) as a test for defects or failure prior to putting it to use

burn in

2 of 2

verb

burned in or burnt in; burning in; burns in

transitive verb

: to increase the density of (portions of a photographic print) during enlarging by giving extra exposure

Examples of burn-in in a Sentence

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
But in terms of preventing burn-in, flying toasters were no better than a blank screen. Chris Stirewalt, The Hill, 30 May 2025 The monitor has several burn-in protections, including one that automatically detects and lowers the local brightness of static elements. Quentyn Kennemer, The Verge, 27 Jan. 2025
Verb
The original ballpark in Dilworth burned in 1985, then in 1990, Fort Mill became their new home base. Katie Black, Charlotte Observer, 27 June 2025 Minimize exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Be aware: white sand and similar surfaces reflect UV and increase exposure. 11+: Extreme (extreme risk of harm; unprotected skin can burn in minutes) Avoid sun exposure from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Reapply SPF 30+ sunscreen every 2 hours. Joe Edwards, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for burn-in

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1966, in the meaning defined above

Verb

circa 1939, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of burn-in was circa 1939

Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Burn-in.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/burn-in. Accessed 3 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

burn-in

noun
: the continuous operation of a device (as a computer) as a test for defects or failure prior to putting it to use
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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