set-in

1 of 3

adjective

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

: 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

Examples of set-in in a Sentence

Verb a cold spell set in sometime last week
Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Adjective
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 Our testers noted that this product completely removed both fresh and set-in red wine stains from t-shirts. Brandi Fuller, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 June 2023 With its powerful stain-fighting formula, Tyler Gallon can remove tough set-in stains while leaving fabrics feeling smooth. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 1 Apr. 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

Time Traveler
The first known use of set-in was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near set-in

Cite this Entry

“Set-in.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/set-in. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.

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
2
: to make its appearance : begin
winter set in early
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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