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
Touted on the latest Apple iPad Pro, tandem OLED enables more brightness (even with each layer being slightly less bright than before, reducing the risk of burn-in) with longer battery life. PCMAG, 27 Nov. 2024 The primary benefits are less burn-in risk, less power consumption, and the potential for higher brightness levels. Scharon Harding, Ars Technica, 23 Sep. 2024
Verb
The Franklin fire burning in Malibu is driven by dangerous winds, dry conditions and low humidity, which have combined to allow the blaze to explode. Rong-Gong Lin Ii, Los Angeles Times, 10 Dec. 2024 Still, Schmidt says that although the study points to wood burning in the hearth, more evidence is needed to conclude for certain that Neanderthals used the hearth to make tar. Alexa Robles-Gil, Smithsonian Magazine, 2 Dec. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near burn-in

Cite this Entry

“Burn-in.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/burn-in. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

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
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!