in situ

[ in sahy-too, -tyoo, see-; Latin in sit-oo ]

adverb

1. situated in the original, natural, or existing place or position:

   The archaeologists were able to date the vase because it was found in situ.

2. Medicine/Medical.
   1. in place or position; undisturbed.
   2. (especially of a malignant tumor) in a localized state or condition:

      carcinoma in situ.

in situ

/ ɪn ˈsɪtjuː /

adverb

1. in the natural, original, or appropriate position
2. pathol (esp of a cancerous growth or tumour) not seen to be spreading from a localized position

in situ

1. In the original place or arrangement: “The body was left in situ until the police arrived.” From Latin , meaning “in position.”

Word History and Origins

Origin of in situ¹

First recorded in 1730–40, in situ is from Latin in sitū literally, “in place”

Related Words

• situated