ingrown

adjective

in·​grown ˈin-ˌgrōn 

1

: grown in

specifically : having the free tip or edge embedded in the flesh

an ingrown toenail

2

: having the direction of growth or activity or interest inward rather than outward

swarms of ingrown, infighting bureaucracies

—H. R. Cilley

ingrownness

(ˌ)in-ˈgrōn-nəs 

noun

Examples of ingrown in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Luv Scrub Inspired by traditional West African exfoliating techniques, this mesh body scrubber provides a deeper cleanse, helping to prevent body acne and ingrown hairs. —Julie Loffredi, Forbes, 3 Mar. 2025

Plus, dull, dirty blades can cause nicks, ingrown hairs, and rashes. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 26 Feb. 2025

This aluminum-free formula contains mandelic acid to gently exfoliate and prevent odor, and works to help with ingrown hairs and texture. —Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 25 Feb. 2025

This deodorant contains ingredients like willow bark (to prevent ingrown hairs) and niacinamide (to brighten underarms). —Louryn Strampe, WIRED, 31 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1670, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for ingrown

• alone
• atone
• backbone
• bemoan
• bluestone
• breastbone
• brownstone
• capstone
• cheekbone
• condone
• curbstone
• cyclone

Kids Definition

ingrown

adjective

in·​grown ˈin-ˌgrōn 

: grown in

especially : having the free tip or edge grown back into the flesh

an ingrown toenail

Medical Definition

ingrown

adjective

in·​grown ˈin-ˌgrōn 

: grown in

specifically : having the normally free tip or edge embedded in the flesh

an ingrown toenail