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

Madigan-Curtis sees big upside in trading offsets for insets. —Nick Rockel, Fortune, 1 Nov. 2024

By replicating the graphic novel’s approach three-dimensionally, Zemeckis’ film becomes like a living diorama with insets providing windows into the past and future. —David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 3 Sep. 2019

Verb

Businesses need to transition away from fossil fuels, increase organic coffee purchases, and shift from offsetting to insetting by investing directly in their supply chain. —Christopher Marquis, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024

Shaker cabinets inset with mauve pink grass cloth and outfitted with vintage brass swan pulls stand opposite a spacious marble vanity inspired by her mother’s. —Mel Studach, Architectural Digest, 29 Oct. 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