drop-in

American  

[drop-in] / ˈdrɒpˌɪn /

noun

1. Informal. Also a person who or thing that pays an unexpected or uninvited visit.

   a feeder for squirrels, raccoons, and other drop-ins.

2. Informal. a social gathering at which the guests are not expected to stay long.

   Be sure to stop by our house for a glass of eggnog at our Christmas drop-in.

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adjective

1. provided for short-term patronage.

   a drop-in shelter for people who are moving through homelessness.

2. requiring only insertion to be ready for use.

   a drop-in battery pack.

drop in British  

verb

1. surfing to intrude on a wave that another surfer is already riding

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Etymology

Origin of drop-in

First recorded in 1810–20; noun and adjective use of verb phrase drop in

Example Sentences

Additional drop-in and pop-up clinics are being organised this year to try to ensure eligible people can get a jab.

From BBC

Because community health centers offer income-based discounts for services not covered by insurance, people may mistakenly assume they exist only to serve people who are uninsured or low-income — or that they are drop-in clinics, rather than places where one can build a relationship with a primary care physician.

From MarketWatch

“Of course! What did I do to get so lucky for a drop-in visit? Everything okay?”

From Literature

In theory, these are 'drop-in' fuels that are a straight replacement for petrol.

From BBC

"We don't have to be referred to. Anybody can call, drop into our drop-in centres and we'll help them," Ms Arthur said.

From BBC

Related Words

• come by
• come over
• pop in
• turn up