Meaning & Definition of word "In"

In

/ɪn/

noun:

  • 1. A position of being popular or fashionable.
    • Example: She always knows what is in.

preposition:

  • 1. Used to indicate inclusion within a space, place, or limits.
    • Example: The cat is in the box.
  • 2. Indicating a state or condition.
    • Example: She is in a good mood today.
  • 3. Indicating a period of time.
    • Example: I will finish the project in two weeks.
  • 4. Used to express a particular direction towards something.
    • Example: He walked in the door.

adverb:

  • 1. Indicating a position within a place.
    • Example: The dog is in.
  • 2. Referring to a state of being at home.
    • Example: Are you in?

Etymology

Old English 'innan', meaning 'inside, within'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

in a nutshell:

In summary or in brief.

in the zone:

In a state of concentration or focus.

in the dark:

Uninformed about something.

in good spirits:

In a happy or cheerful mood.

in the loop:

Informed about something.

Related Words

into:

Expressing movement or action towards the inside of a place.

inside:

The inner part or region of something.

inward:

Towards the inside or inner part.

Slang Meanings of in

Meaning: Currently popular or trendy.

Example Sentence: Those shoes are really in right now.

Meaning: Current situation or state.

Example Sentence: What's the deal? Are we in or out?