inlet

American  

[in-let, -lit, in-let, in-let] / ˈɪn lɛt, -lɪt, ˈɪnˌlɛt, ɪnˈlɛt /

noun

1. an indentation of a shoreline, usually long and narrow; small bay or arm.

2. a narrow passage between islands.

3. a place of admission; entrance.

4. something put in or inserted.

---

verb (used with object)

inlet, inletting

1. to put in; insert.

inlet British  

noun

1. a narrow inland opening of the coastline

2. an entrance or opening

3. the act of letting someone or something in

4. something let in or inserted

5. 1. a passage, valve, or part through which a substance, esp a fluid, enters a device or machine

   2. ( as modifier )

      an inlet valve

---

verb

1. (tr) to insert or inlay

Etymology

Origin of inlet

Middle English word dating back to 1250–1300; see origin at in, let ¹

Example Sentences

A tropical-storm warning was in effect from Beaufort Inlet, N.C., up the coast to Chincoteague, Va., near the Maryland border, meaning tropical-storm conditions are expected in that area within 24 hours.

From The Wall Street Journal • Aug. 20, 2025

She said she trekked to Murrell’s Inlet almost daily for it from her family’s summer place in close by Isle of Palm where she spent so many summers of her life.

From Salon • Aug. 30, 2024

Coast Guard confirmed in a statement published on Tuesday that Griffin and his dog Leila were found dead off the coast of Oregon Inlet in North Carolina’s Outer Banks.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 6, 2024

Silverdale Oxford Suites provides cozy bay-view suites looking out on the lapping ways of Dyes Inlet; some rooms have balconies.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 14, 2024

The motor was screaming as we flew through the water toward the Inlet.

From Unicorns by Huneker, James

Related Words

• basin
• estuary
• fjord