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

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

The fiber promotion organization scored a $4 million AUD (about $2.6 million) grant from the Australian government to begin this insetting initiative, a key component of its Woolmark+ roadmap. —Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 3 Sep. 2019

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