take-in

[ teyk-in ]

noun

, Informal.

1. a deception, fraud, or imposition.

take in

verb

1. to comprehend or understand
2. to include or comprise

   his thesis takes in that point

3. to receive into one's house in exchange for payment

   take in lodgers

   to take in washing

4. to make (an article of clothing, etc) smaller by altering seams
5. to include

   the tour takes in the islands as well as the mainland

6. informal.
   to cheat or deceive
7. to go to; visit

   let's take in a movie tonight

noun

1. informal.
   the act or an instance of cheating or deceiving

Word History and Origins

Origin of take-in¹

First recorded in 1770–80; noun use of verb phrase take in

Example Sentences

Ah, signora mia, what a take-in You saw my father-in-law at the time of our wedding.

From Project Gutenberg

However, it will not do to stop too long and be ensnared,—it would only be another take-in.

From Project Gutenberg

But I have got into shoal water with her, and have found her to be a terrible take-in.

From Project Gutenberg

We stayed at the Cape no longer than was needful to take in-fresh water, but made the best of our way for the coast of Coromandel.

From Project Gutenberg