Dictionary.com

inosculate

[ in-os-kyuh-leyt ]
/ ɪnˈɒs kyəˌleɪt /
Save This Word!

verb (used with or without object), in·os·cu·lat·ed, in·os·cu·lat·ing.
to unite by openings, as arteries in anastomosis.
to connect or join so as to become or make continuous, as fibers; blend.
to unite intimately.
QUIZ
WILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?
Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!
Question 1 of 7
Fill in the blank: I can’t figure out _____ gave me this gift.

Origin of inosculate

First recorded in 1665–75; in-2 + osculate

OTHER WORDS FROM inosculate

in·os·cu·la·tion, noun
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

How to use inosculate in a sentence

British Dictionary definitions for inosculate

inosculate
/ (ɪnˈɒskjʊˌleɪt) /

verb
physiol (of small blood vessels) to communicate by anastomosis
to unite or be united so as to be continuous; blend
to intertwine or cause to intertwine

Derived forms of inosculate

inosculation, noun

Word Origin for inosculate

C17: from in- ² + Latin ōsculāre to equip with an opening, from ōsculum, diminutive of ōs mouth
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
FEEDBACK