Inch

/ɪnʧ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A unit of length equal to one twelfth of a foot (2.54 cm).
The board is 6 inches long.
A small amount or degree.
He was only inching closer to his goal.
verb
To move or advance slowly or cautiously.
She inched forward to get a better view of the stage.
To increase gradually.
The temperature in the room inched up throughout the day.

Etymology

Middle English 'ynche', from Old French 'unche', from Latin 'uncia' meaning 'one-twelfth part'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

inch by inch:
Gradually or slowly, step by step.
to give an inch:
To yield slightly or concede a small amount.
to take an inch:
To take advantage of a small concession.
inches away:
Very close or near.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Inch: a small amount or degree.
He's only an inch from the finish line.
To inch: to move slowly or cautiously.
They had to inch their way through the crowd.