inlay
Americanverb (used with object)
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to decorate (an object) with layers of fine materials set in its surface.
to inlay a chest with lighter wood.
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to insert or apply (layers of fine materials) in the surface of an object.
to inlay marble in a tabletop.
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Horticulture. to place (a fitted scion) into a prepared stock, as in a method of grafting.
noun
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inlaid work.
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a layer of fine material inserted in something else, especially for ornament.
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a design or decoration made by inlaying.
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Dentistry. a filling of metal, porcelain, or the like, that is first shaped to fit a cavity and then cemented into it.
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Horticulture. inlay graft.
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the act or process of inlaying.
verb
noun
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dentistry a filling, made of gold, porcelain, etc, inserted into a cavity and held in position by cement
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decoration made by inlaying
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an inlaid article, surface, etc
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of inlay
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Her nods to the Navajo culture include a turquoise inlay and a depiction of eagle feathers, which are used to give blessings.
From Washington Times • Mar. 24, 2023
Its stone marble inlay storefront cut with industrial Uranian blue linings and arched entryway faces the dancing fountain in the complex’s atrium.
From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 28, 2023
Professionally installed artificial turf has an extensive base layer consisting of gravel inlay, sand, decomposed granite or any combination of these.
From Seattle Times • Feb. 28, 2023
The state bed later suffered damage in a fire and a new one was built in 1859 measuring 6ft long and 12ft high, made of walnut with gilt inlay.
From BBC • Jan. 29, 2023
At the center was an inlay fountain that cooled you with its whisper.
From "Everything Sad Is Untrue" by Daniel Nayeri
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
