set-in

1 of 3

adjective

ˈset-ˈin 

1

: placed, located, or built as a part of some other construction

a set-in bookcase

a set-in washbasin

2

: cut separately and stitched in

set-in sleeves

set-in

2 of 3

noun

ˈset-ˌin 

: insert

set in

3 of 3

verb

set in; setting in; sets in

transitive verb

: insert

especially : to stitch (a small part) within a large article

set in a sleeve of a dress

intransitive verb

: to become established

Synonyms

Verb

• actualize
• appear
• arise
• begin
• break
• commence
• dawn
• engender
• form
• materialize
• originate
• spring
• start

Examples of set-in in a Sentence

Verb

a cold spell set in sometime last week

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

But other Democrats say Newsom’s problems are less about the fires and more about perceptions that had been set-in while before Trump’s second win, but are perhaps even more problematic now. —Amie Parnes, The Hill, 28 Jan. 2025

By contrast, the handheld tool and abrasive brass scrubbing brush became our go-to tool for removing set-in grout stains and soap scum without disturbing smooth tile surfaces. —Maria Conti, Southern Living, 30 Jan. 2025

When treating set-in stains, using a laundry brush lends more mechanical action to the stain-removal process. —Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Oct. 2024

Deep cleaning fabrics: Fabrics that are dingy or yellowed from age or product buildup, or that have deeply set-in stains, can be restored using oxygen bleach. —Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Sep. 2024

Even the toughest, set-in grease stains can be effectively banished with the help of a few household products and a little know-how. —Maryal Miller Carter, USA TODAY, 28 July 2024

Ideal for removing everyday dirt and grime and tough set-in stains, it can also be used for shirts, towels, workout gear and more for versatile use on the go. —Alyssa Rotunno, Travel + Leisure, 17 Nov. 2023

The Daily Shirt is aptly designed for paddling, thanks to set-in sleeves and minimal stitching and seams throughout. —Kevin Brouillard, Travel + Leisure, 29 Aug. 2023

The dress has a crew neckline, set-in sleeves, and a functional front pocket. —Nicol Natale, Peoplemag, 7 Aug. 2023

Noun

In certain quarters, this space included, the pitch clock’s biggest challenge figured to come from the saltiest, set-in-their-ways veterans chafing at being told to move it along, service time be damned. —Gabe Lacques, USA TODAY, 1 Mar. 2023

Traditional lending can often unintentionally box out small-business owners with stringent and set-in-stone requirements. —Xan Myburgh, Forbes, 21 Feb. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1534, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1953, in the meaning defined above

Verb

15th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Rhymes for set-in

• akin
• auxin
• buckskin
• chagrin
• deerskin
• foreskin
• fuchsin
• herein
• kingpin
• linchpin
• pigskin
• pinyin

Kids Definition

set-in

1 of 2 adjective

ˌset-ˌin

: cut separately and stitched in

set-in sleeves

set in

2 of 2 verb

1

: insert entry 1 sense 2

2

: to make its appearance : begin

winter set in early