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• cut-in
  cut-in

  noun

  a still, as of a scene or an object, inserted in a film and interrupting the action or continuity.
• cut in
  cut in

  verb

  to break in or interrupt

cut-in

American  

[kuht-in] / ˈkʌtˌɪn /

noun

1. Movies. a still, as of a scene or an object, inserted in a film and interrupting the action or continuity.

   We will insert a cut-in of the letter as she reads it.

2. Radio and Television. a commercial or other announcement inserted by a local station into a network broadcast.

3. the act of cutting in, as on a dancing couple.

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cut in British  

verb

1. Also: cut into.  to break in or interrupt

2. (intr) to interrupt a dancing couple to dance with one of them

3. (intr) (of a driver, motor vehicle, etc) to draw in front of another vehicle leaving too little space

4. informal (tr) to allow to have a share

5. (intr) to take the place of a person in a card game

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noun

1. Also called: insert.  films a separate shot or scene inserted at a relevant point

cut in Idioms  

1. Move oneself between others, take a place ahead of one's proper turn. For example, She was very aggressive, always cutting in the cafeteria line . [Early 1600s]

2. Also, . Interrupt a conversation; also, interpose oneself between dancing partners and replace one of them. For example, Before Walter was done talking, Marion cut into his conversation , or Jane was quite pleased when Arthur cut in on their dance . [First half of 1800s]

3. Also, cut in on . Include in a profitable business deal or share of the profit, as in Do you want to be cut in on this deal? or We plan to cut you in on this moneymaker . [ Slang ; late 1800s]

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Etymology

Origin of cut-in

First recorded in 1880–85; noun use of verb phrase cut in

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

cut-in cut in

“There are many different types of pie crust,” Baldwin explained, “but the most classic ones use a cut-in fat technique, which gives you a tender, flaky crust.”

From Salon ● Jan. 30, 2025

Though there are people who cut-in, it’s a minor issue compared to the core problem frustrating the commuters on the Washington State Ferries system.

From Seattle Times ● Jul. 29, 2022

But even when they’re operating below the cut-in speed, wind turbines still spin — and take a toll on bats.

From National Geographic ● Sep. 2, 2015

Allen made a trademark out of following a slow fade-out with a quick cut-in, unorthodox at the time.

From The Guardian ● Apr. 28, 2010

Its hallmark was the “Clovis point,” a four-inch spearhead with a slightly cut-in, concave tail; in silhouette, the points somewhat resemble those goldfish-shaped cocktail crackers.

From "1491" by Charles C. Mann

They seemed happy to oblige, apparently assured that they’d be cut in on whatever deal the U.S. had in mind.

From Salon ● Sep. 1, 2026

Last month, Andy Burnham announced a 20% cut in business rates for pubs, social clubs and live music venues in England, to come into effect in April.

From BBC ● Aug. 23, 2026

Finally, after Dan failed to get the hint, Bill cut in.

From Slate ● Aug. 14, 2026

Iranian exports were cut in half in a week’s time, down to 47,000 barrels a day last week.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 11, 2026

“And that’s why pregnancy is not something to be taken lightly,” Mrs. Richardson cut in.

From "Little Fires Everywhere" by Celeste Ng

Related Words

• break in
• move in