insert

[in-surt, in-surt]

verb (used with object)

1. to put or place in.

   to insert a key in a lock.

2. to introduce or cause to be introduced into the body of something.

   to insert an extra paragraph in an article.

noun

1. something inserted or to be inserted.

2. an extra leaf or section, printed independently, for binding or tipping into a book or periodical, especially a leaf or section consisting of an illustration or advertisement printed on different paper.

3. any small picture, device, etc., surrounded partly or completely by body type.

4. a paper, circular, etc., placed within the folds of a newspaper or the leaves of a book, periodical, etc.

5. Movies, Radio and Television.,  cut-in

insert

verb

1. to put in or between; introduce

2. to introduce, as into text, such as a newspaper; interpolate

noun

1. something inserted

2. 1. a folded section placed in another for binding in with a book

   2. a printed sheet, esp one bearing advertising, placed loose between the leaves of a book, periodical, etc

3. another word for cut in

Other Word Forms

• insertable adjective
• inserter noun
• interinsert verb (used with object)
• preinsert verb (used with object)
• reinsert verb (used with object)
• subinsert verb (used with object)

Word History and Origins

Origin of insert¹

First recorded in 1520–30; from Latin insertus, past participle of inserere “to put in, insert,” equivalent to in- “in” + ser- (stem of serere “to link together”) + -tus past participle suffix; in- ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of insert¹

C16: from Latin inserere to plant in, ingraft, from _in- ² + serere to join

Example Sentences

While Loktev rarely inserts herself into this epic, we feel her admiration from behind the camera.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The skid blocks inserted into the underbody 'plank' are there to ensure the team cannot run the car lower than the regulations intend.

Read more on BBC

Scientists insert the missing IDS gene into a virus, which has its genetic material removed so that it can't cause disease.

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The 25-year-old, making only his second England appearance after a debut against the United States in the summer, looked immediately at home as he inserted himself into England's midfield debate.

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She winces as a small cannula is delicately inserted into her cheek.

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Related Words

• embed 
• enter 
• fill in 
• imbed 
• implant 
• include 
• inject 
• introduce 
• stick