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

Her colored jeans were washed and hand-dyed in muted pink and pigeon gray, and fabric remnants were used for the plaid insets in the skirts. —Laird Borrelli-Persson, Vogue, 16 Feb. 2024

The back features one small patch pocket with a cutout inset for quick card removal and an overall clean look. —Nneya Richards, Travel + Leisure, 17 Jan. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1559, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Verb

1658, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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