Definitions & Meanings - English Dictionary

♦ in|ning / 'ɪnɪŋ / (innings) [N-COUNT] An inning is one of the nine periods that a standard baseball game is divided into. Each team is at bat once in each inning.

in|nings / 'ɪnɪŋz / (innings) [N-COUNT] An innings is a period in a game of cricket during which a particular team or player is batting. The home side were all out for 50 in their second innings.

inn|keeper / 'ɪnkiːpə r / (innkeepers) [N-COUNT] An innkeeper is someone who owns or manages a small hotel or pub. (OLD-FASHIONED)

in|no|cence / 'ɪnəsəns / 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Innocence is the quality of having no experience or knowledge of the more complex or unpleasant aspects of life. ...the sweet innocence of youth... 2 [N-UNCOUNT] oft poss N If someone proves their innocence , they prove that they are not guilty of a crime. He claims he has evidence which could prove his innocence. ≠ guilt

♦ in|no|cent / 'ɪnəsənt / (innocents) 1 [ADJ] oft ADJ of n If someone is innocent , they did not commit a crime which they have been accused of. He was sure that the man was innocent of any crime... The police knew from day one that I was innocent. ≠ guilty 2 [ADJ] If someone is innocent , they have no experience or knowledge of the more complex or unpleasant aspects of life. They seemed so young and innocent... = naive [N-COUNT] An innocent is someone who is innocent. Ian was a hopeless innocent where women were concerned. ● innocently [ADV] usu ADV with v The baby gurgled innocently on the bed. 3 [ADJ] usu ADJ n Innocent people are those who are not involved in a crime or conflict, but are injured or killed as a result of it. All those wounded were innocent victims... 4 [ADJ] An innocent question, remark, or comment is not intended to offend or upset people, even if it does so. It was a perfectly innocent question. = harmless

in|no|cent|ly / 'ɪnəsəntli / [ADV] ADV with v If you say that someone does or says something innocently , you mean that they are pretending not to know something about a situation. I caught Chrissie's eye, but she only smiled back at me innocently... see also innocent

in|nocu|ous / ɪn'ɒkjuəs / [ADJ] Something that is innocuous is not at all harmful or offensive. (FORMAL) Both mushrooms look innocuous but are in fact deadly... = harmless

in|no|vate / 'ɪnəveɪt / (innovates innovating innovated) [VERB] V, also V n To innovate means to introduce changes and new ideas in the way something is done or made. ...his constant desire to innovate and experiment.

in|no|va|tion / 'ɪnəv'eɪʃ ə n / (innovations) 1 [N-COUNT] An innovation is a new thing or a new method of doing something. The vegetarian burger was an innovation which was rapidly exported to Britain. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] Innovation is the introduction of new ideas, methods, or things. We must promote originality and encourage innovation.

in|no|va|tive / 'ɪnəveɪtɪv / 1 [ADJ] Something that is innovative is new and original. ...products which are more innovative than those of their competitors. 2 [ADJ] An innovative person introduces changes and new ideas. He was one of the most creative and innovative engineers of his generation.

in|no|va|tor / 'ɪnəveɪtə r / (innovators) [N-COUNT] An innovator is someone who introduces changes and new ideas. He is an innovator in this field.

in|no|va|tory / 'ɪnəveɪtəri, AM -tɔːri / [ADJ] Innovatory means the same as innovative . (mainly BRIT) Only the opening sequence could claim to be genuinely innovatory.

in|nu|en|do / 'ɪnju'endoʊ / (innuendoesor innuendos) [N-VAR] Innuendo is indirect reference to something rude or unpleasant. The report was based on rumours, speculation, and innuendo.

in|nu|mer|able / ɪnj'uːmərəb ə l, AM -n'uː- / [ADJ] usu ADJ n Innumerable means very many, or too many to be counted. (FORMAL) He has invented innumerable excuses, told endless lies. = countless, endless

in|ocu|late / ɪn'ɒkjʊleɪt / (inoculates inoculating inoculated) [VERB] V n, be V-ed against n To inoculate a person or animal means to inject a weak form of a disease into their body as a way of protecting them against the disease. ...a program to inoculate every child in the state... His dogs were inoculated against rabies. = vaccinate ● inoculation [N-VAR] oft N against n This may eventually lead to routine inoculation of children...

in|of|fen|sive / 'ɪnəf'ensɪv / [ADJ] If you describe someone or something as inoffensive , you mean that they are not unpleasant or unacceptable in any way, but are perhaps rather dull. He's a mild inoffensive man... ≠ offensive

in|op|er|able / ɪn'ɒpərəb ə l / [ADJ] An inoperable medical condition is one that cannot be cured by a surgical operation. (FORMAL) He was diagnosed with inoperable lung cancer.

in|op|era|tive / ɪn'ɒpərətɪv / [ADJ] An inoperative rule, principle, or tax is one that does not work any more or that cannot be made to work. (FORMAL)

in|op|por|tune / ɪn'ɒpə r tjuːn, AM -t'uːn / [ADJ] If you describe something as inopportune or if you say that it happens at an inopportune time, you mean that it happens at an unfortunate or unsuitable time, and causes trouble or embarrassment because of this. The dismissals came at an inopportune time.

in|or|di|nate / ɪn'ɔː r dɪnɪt / [ADJ] usu ADJ n If you describe something as inordinate , you are emphasizing that it is unusually or excessively great in amount or degree. (FORMAL) They spend an inordinate amount of time talking. ● inordinately [ADV] usu ADV adj/-ed He is inordinately proud of his wife's achievements.

in|or|gan|ic / 'ɪnɔː r g'ænɪk / [ADJ] usu ADJ n Inorganic substances are substances such as stone and metal that do not come from living things. ...roofing made from organic and inorganic fibres. ≠ organic

in|put / 'ɪnpʊt / (inputs inputting) The form input is used in the present tense and is the past tense and past participle. 1 [N-VAR] Input consists of information or resources that a group or project receives. We listen to our employees and value their input... 2 [N-UNCOUNT] Input is information that is put into a computer. (COMPUTING) ≠ output 3 [VERB] be V-ed onto n If you input information into a computer, you feed it in, for example by typing it on a keyboard. (COMPUTING) All this information had to be input onto the computer. in|put de|vice (input devices) [N-COUNT] An input device is a piece of computer equipment such as a keyboard which enables you to put information into a computer. (COMPUTING)

in|quest / 'ɪnkwest / (inquests) 1 [N-COUNT] oft N into n When an inquest is held, a public official hears evidence about someone's death in order to find out the cause. The inquest into their deaths opened yesterday in Enniskillen. 2 [N-COUNT] usu sing, usu N into n You can refer to an investigation by the people involved into the causes of a defeat or failure as an inquest . His plea came last night as party chiefs held an inquest into the election disaster. = inquiry

in|quire / ɪnkw'aɪ'ə r / (inquires inquiring inquired) also enquire 1 [VERB] V with quote, V of n with quote, V about n, V wh, V n, also V for n, V of n wh, V If you inquire about something, you ask for information about it. (FORMAL) `Is something wrong?' he enquired... `Who are you?' he enquired of the first man... I rang up to inquire about train times... He inquired whether there had been any messages for him... He was so impressed that he inquired the young shepherd's name. 2 [VERB] V into n/wh If you inquire into something, you investigate it carefully. Inspectors were appointed to inquire into the affairs of the company. inquire after [PHRASAL VERB] V P n (not pron) If you inquire after someone, you ask how they are or what they are doing. (FORMAL) Elsie called to inquire after my health. = ask after

in|quir|er / ɪnkw'aɪ'ərə r / (inquirers) also enquirer 1 [N-COUNT] An inquirer is a person who asks for information about something or someone. (FORMAL) I send each inquirer a packet of information. 2 [N-IN-NAMES] the supp N Inquirer is used in the names of some newspapers and magazines. ...the National Enquirer.

in|quir|ing / ɪnkw'aɪ'ərɪŋ / also enquiring 1 [ADJ] ADJ n If you have an inquiring mind, you have a great interest in learning new things. All this helps children to develop an inquiring attitude to learning. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n If someone has an inquiring expression on their face, they are showing that they want to know something. (WRITTEN) ...an enquiring glance. = questioning ● inquiringly [ADV] She looked at me inquiringly. `Well?'

♦ in|quiry / ɪnkw'aɪ'əri / (inquiries) The spelling enquiry is also used. Inquiry is sometimes pronounced / 'ɪŋkwɪri /in American English. 1 [N-COUNT] An inquiry is a question which you ask in order to get some information. He made some inquiries and discovered she had gone to the Continent... 2 [N-COUNT] An inquiry is an official investigation. The Democratic Party has called for an independent inquiry into the incident. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] Inquiry is the process of asking about or investigating something in order to find out more about it. The investigation has suddenly switched to a new line of inquiry. 4 see also court of inquiry court of in|quiry (courts of inquiry) [N-COUNT] A court of inquiry is a group of people who are officially appointed to investigate a serious accident or incident, or an official investigation into a serious accident or incident. (mainly BRIT) The government has instituted a court of inquiry to look into the all...

in|qui|si|tion / 'ɪnkwɪz'ɪʃ ə n / (inquisitions) [N-COUNT] An inquisition is an official investigation, especially one which is very thorough and uses harsh methods of questioning.

in|quisi|tive / ɪnkw'ɪzɪtɪv / [ADJ] An inquisitive person likes finding out about things, especially secret things. Barrow had an inquisitive nature... ● inquisitively [ADV] ADV after v Molly looked at Ann inquisitively. `Where do you want to go?' ● inquisitiveness [N-UNCOUNT] I liked children, loved their innocence and their inquisitiveness.

in|quisi|tor / ɪnkw'ɪzɪtə r / (inquisitors) [N-COUNT] An inquisitor is someone who is asking someone else a series of questions, especially in a rather hostile way or as part of an inquisition.

in|quisi|to|rial / ɪnkw'ɪzɪt'ɔːri ə l / [ADJ] If you describe something or someone as inquisitorial , you mean they resemble things or people in an inquisition. The next hearings will be structured differently in order to minimize the inquisitorial atmosphere.

in|roads / 'ɪnroʊdz / [PHRASE] V inflects, usu PHR into n If one thing makes inroads into another, the first thing starts affecting or destroying the second. In Italy, as elsewhere, television has made deep inroads into cinema.

in|sane / ɪns'eɪn / 1 [ADJ] usu v-link ADJ Someone who is insane has a mind that does not work in a normal way, with the result that their behaviour is very strange. Some people simply can't take it and they just go insane... = mad 2 [ADJ] If you describe a decision or action as insane , you think it is very foolish or excessive. I said, `Listen, this is completely insane.' ● insanely [ADV] usu ADV adj, also ADV with v I would be insanely jealous if Bill left me for another woman.

in|sani|tary / ɪns'ænɪtri, AM -teri / [ADJ] If something such as a place is insanitary , it is so dirty that it is likely to have a bad effect on people's health. (FORMAL) ...the insanitary conditions of slums... British prisons remain disgracefully crowded and insanitary. = unhygienic

in|san|ity / ɪns'ænɪti / 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Insanity is the state of being insane. The defence pleaded insanity, but the defendant was found guilty and sentenced. = madness 2 [N-UNCOUNT] usu with supp, oft N of n If you describe a decision or an action as insanity , you think it is very foolish. ...the final financial insanity of the 1980s.

in|sa|tiable / ɪns'eɪʃəb ə l / [ADJ] If someone has an insatiable desire for something, they want as much of it as they can possibly get. The public has an insatiable appetite for stories about the famous... = voracious

in|scribe / ɪnskr'aɪb / (inscribes inscribing inscribed) 1 [VERB] V n on n, V-ed on/with n If you inscribe words on an object, you write or carve the words on the object. Some galleries commemorate donors by inscribing their names on the walls... ...stone slabs inscribed with Buddhist texts. 2 [VERB] V n, V-ed quote If you inscribe something in the front of a book or on a photograph, you write it there, often before giving it to someone. On the back I had inscribed the words: `Here's to Great Ideas! John'... The book is inscribed: To John Arlott from Laurie Lee.

in|scrip|tion / ɪnskr'ɪpʃ ə n / (inscriptions) 1 [N-COUNT] An inscription is writing carved into something made of stone or metal, for example a gravestone or medal. The medal bears the inscription `For distinguished service'. 2 [N-COUNT] An inscription is something written by hand in the front of a book or on a photograph. The inscription reads: `To Emma, with love from Harry'.

in|scru|table / ɪnskr'uːtəb ə l / [ADJ] If a person or their expression is inscrutable , it is very hard to know what they are really thinking or what they mean. In public he remained inscrutable.

in|sect / 'ɪnsekt / (insects) [N-COUNT] An insect is a small animal that has six legs. Most insects have wings. Ants, flies, butterflies, and beetles are all insects. stick in|sect (stick insects) also stick-insect [N-COUNT] A stick insect is an insect with a long body and thin legs. It looks like a small stick.

in|sec|ti|cide / ɪns'ektɪsaɪd / (insecticides) [N-MASS] Insecticide is a chemical substance that is used to kill insects. Spray the plants with insecticide.

in|secure / 'ɪnsɪkj'ʊə r / 1 [ADJ] usu v-link ADJ If you are insecure , you lack confidence because you think that you are not good enough or are not loved. Most mothers are insecure about their performance as mothers. ≠ confident ● insecurity [N-VAR] She is always assailed by self-doubt and emotional insecurity... 2 [ADJ] Something that is insecure is not safe or protected. ...low-paid, insecure jobs... ≠ secure ● insecurity [N-UNCOUNT] Crime creates feelings of insecurity in the population.

in|semi|nate / ɪns'emɪneɪt / (inseminates inseminating inseminated) 1 [VERB] V n To inseminate a woman or female animal means to put a male's sperm into her in order to make her pregnant. The gadget is used to artificially inseminate cows. ● insemination [N-UNCOUNT] The sperm sample is checked under the microscope before insemination is carried out. 2 see also artificial insemination

ar|ti|fi|cial in|semi|na|tion [N-UNCOUNT] Artificial insemination is a medical technique for making a woman pregnant by injecting previously stored sperm into her womb. Female animals can also be made pregnant by artificial insemination. The abbreviation AI is also used.

in|sen|si|tive / ɪns'ensɪtɪv / 1 [ADJ] If you describe someone as insensitive , you are criticizing them for being unaware of or unsympathetic to other people's feelings. I feel my husband is very insensitive about my problem. ≠ sensitive ● insensitivity [N-UNCOUNT] I was ashamed at my insensitivity towards her. 2 [ADJ] usu ADJ to n Someone who is insensitive to a situation or to a need does not think or care about it. Women's and Latino organizations that say he is insensitive to civil rights. ● insensitivity [N-UNCOUNT] ...insensitivity to the environmental consequences. 3 [ADJ] usu v-link ADJ to n Someone who is insensitive to a physical sensation is unable to feel it. He had become insensitive to cold.

in|sepa|rable / ɪns'eprəb ə l / 1 [ADJ] oft ADJ from n If one thing is inseparable from another, the things are so closely connected that they cannot be considered separately. He firmly believes liberty is inseparable from social justice... ● inseparably [ADV] usu ADV -ed, also ADV after v In his mind, religion and politics were inseparably intertwined. 2 [ADJ] If you say that two people are inseparable , you are emphasizing that they are very good friends and spend a great deal of time together. She and Kristin were inseparable.

in|sert (inserts inserting inserted) The verb is pronounced / ɪns'ɜː r t / The noun is pronounced / 'ɪnsɜː r t / 1 [VERB] V n into n, V n If you insert an object into something, you put the object inside it. He took a small key from his pocket and slowly inserted it into the lock... Wait for a couple of minutes with your mouth closed before inserting the thermometer. ● insertion [N-VAR] ...the first experiment involving the insertion of a new gene into a human being. 2 [VERB] V n, also V n into/in n If you insert a comment into a piece of writing or a speech, you include it. They joined with the monarchists to insert a clause calling for a popular vote on the issue. ● insertion [N-VAR] He recorded an item for insertion in the programme. 3 [N-COUNT] An insert is something that is inserted somewhere, especially an advertisement on a piece of paper that is placed between the pages of a book or magazine.

in|set / 'ɪnset / (insets) 1 [ADJ] usu v-link ADJ, oft ADJ with n Something that is inset with a decoration or piece of material has the decoration or material set inside it. ...a gold pendant, inset with a diamond. 2 [N-COUNT] An inset is a small picture, diagram, or map that is inside a larger one. I frequently paint between 10 and 20 insets for my murals.

in|shore The adverb is pronounced / 'ɪnʃ'ɔː r / The adjective is pronounced / 'ɪnʃɔː r / [ADV] be ADV, ADV after v If something is inshore , it is in the sea but quite close to the land. If something moves inshore , it moves from the sea towards the land. A barge was close inshore about a hundred yards away... ≠ offshore [ADJ] ADJ n Inshore is also an adjective. ...inshore reefs and islands. ≠ offshore

♦♦ in|side / 'ɪns'aɪd / (insides) The preposition is usually pronounced / ɪns'aɪd /. The form inside of can also be used as a preposition. This form is more usual in American English. 1 [PREP] Something or someone that is inside a place, container, or object is in it or is surrounded by it. Inside the passport was a folded slip of paper... There is a telephone inside the entrance hall. ≠ outside [ADV] ADV after v, be ADV, from ADV, n ADV, ADV with cl Inside is also an adverb. The couple chatted briefly on the doorstep before going inside... Inside, clouds of cigarette smoke swirled. ≠ outside [ADJ] ADJ n Inside is also an adjective. ...four-berth inside cabins with en suite bathroom and shower. 2 [N-COUNT] usu the N in sing The inside of something is the part or area that its sides surround or contain. The doors were locked from the inside... I painted the inside of the house... ≠ outside [ADJ] ADJ n Inside is also an adje...

in|sid|er / 'ɪns'aɪdə r / (insiders) [N-COUNT] An insider is someone who is involved in a situation and who knows more about it than other people. An insider said, `Katharine has told friends it is time to end her career.' in|sid|er trad|ing also insider dealing [N-UNCOUNT] Insider trading or insider dealing is the illegal buying or selling of a company's shares by someone who has secret or private information about the company. (BUSINESS)

in|sidi|ous / ɪns'ɪdiəs / [ADJ] Something that is insidious is unpleasant or dangerous and develops gradually without being noticed. The changes are insidious, and will not produce a noticeable effect for 15 to 20 years... ● insidiously [ADV] usu ADV adj Delusions are sometimes insidiously destructive.

in|sight / 'ɪnsaɪt / (insights) 1 [N-VAR] usu N into n If you gain insight or an insight into a complex situation or problem, you gain an accurate and deep understanding of it. The project would give scientists new insights into what is happening to the earth's atmosphere... 2 [N-UNCOUNT] If someone has insight , they are able to understand complex situations. He was a man with considerable insight.

in|sight|ful / 'ɪnsaɪtfʊl / [ADJ] If you describe a person or their remarks as insightful , you mean that they show a very good understanding of people and situations. She offered some really interesting, insightful observations. = astute, shrewd

in|sig|nia / ɪns'ɪgniə / (insignia) [N-COUNT] An insignia is a design or symbol which shows that a person or object belongs to a particular organization, often a military one. The red star was the national insignia of the USSR. = emblem

in|sig|nifi|cance / 'ɪnsɪgn'ɪfɪkəns / [N-UNCOUNT] Insignificance is the quality of being insignificant. The cost pales into insignificance when compared with the damage done to his reputation... ≠ significance

in|sig|nifi|cant / 'ɪnsɪgn'ɪfɪkənt / [ADJ] Something that is insignificant is unimportant, especially because it is very small. In 1949 Bonn was a small, insignificant city. ≠ significant

in|sin|cere / 'ɪnsɪns'ɪə r / [ADJ] If you say that someone is insincere , you are being critical of them because they say things they do not really mean, usually pleasant, admiring, or encouraging things. Some people are so terribly insincere you can never tell if they are telling the truth... ≠ sincere ● insincerity [N-UNCOUNT] Too many superlatives lend a note of insincerity. ≠ sincerity

in|sinu|ate / ɪns'ɪnjueɪt / (insinuates insinuating insinuated) 1 [VERB] V that If you say that someone insinuates that something bad is the case, you mean that they say it in an indirect way. The libel claim followed an article which insinuated that the President was lying... = imply ● insinuation [N-VAR] He speaks with rage of insinuations that there's a `gay mafia' in Hollywood... 2 [VERB] V pron-refl into n, also V n prep If you say that someone insinuates themselves into a particular situation, you mean that they manage very cleverly, and perhaps dishonestly, to get into that situation. He gradually insinuated himself into her life. = worm

in|sinu|at|ing / ɪns'ɪnjueɪtɪŋ / [ADJ] If you describe someone's words or voice as insinuating , you mean that they are saying in an indirect way that something bad is the case. Marcus kept making insinuating remarks...

in|sip|id / ɪns'ɪpɪd / 1 [ADJ] If you describe food or drink as insipid , you dislike it because it has very little taste. It tasted indescribably bland and insipid, like warmed cardboard. = bland, flavourless 2 [ADJ] If you describe someone or something as insipid , you mean they are dull and boring. On the surface she seemed meek, rather insipid...

♦♦ in|sist / ɪns'ɪst / (insists insisting insisted) 1 [VERB] V that, V on -ing/n, V If you insist that something should be done, you say so very firmly and refuse to give in about it. If you insist on something, you say firmly that it must be done or provided. My family insisted that I should not give in, but stay and fight... She insisted on being present at all the interviews... I didn't want to join in, but Kenneth insisted. 2 [VERB] V that, V with quote, V on n If you insist that something is the case, you say so very firmly and refuse to say otherwise, even though other people do not believe you. The president insisted that he was acting out of compassion, not opportunism... `It's not that difficult,' she insists... Crippen insisted on his innocence.

in|sist|ence / ɪns'ɪstəns / [N-UNCOUNT] oft N on -ing/n, N that Someone's insistence on something is the fact that they insist that it should be done or insist that it is the case. ...Raeder's insistence that naval uniform be worn...

in|sist|ent / ɪns'ɪstənt / 1 [ADJ] oft ADJ that, ADJ on n/-ing Someone who is insistent keeps insisting that a particular thing should be done or is the case. Stalin was insistent that the war would be won and lost in the machine shops... ● insistently [ADV] ADV with v `What is it?' his wife asked again, gently but insistently. 2 [ADJ] An insistent noise or rhythm keeps going on for a long time and holds your attention. ...the insistent rhythms of the Caribbean and Latin America. = unrelenting

in|so|far as / 'ɪnsəf'ɑːr æz / [PHRASE] You use insofar as to introduce a statement which explains and adds to something you have just said. (FORMAL) Looking back helps insofar as it helps you learn from your mistakes. = inasmuch as

in|sole / 'ɪnsoʊl / (insoles) [N-COUNT] usu pl The insoles of a pair of shoes are the soft layer of material inside each one, which the soles of your feet rest on.

in|so|lent / 'ɪnsələnt / [ADJ] If you say that someone is being insolent , you mean they are being rude to someone they ought to be respectful to. ...her insolent stare... ● insolence [N-UNCOUNT] Pupils could be excluded from school for insolence.

in|sol|uble / ɪns'ɒljʊb ə l / 1 [ADJ] An insoluble problem is so difficult that it is impossible to solve. I pushed the problem aside; at present it was insoluble... 2 [ADJ] If a substance is insoluble , it does not dissolve in a liquid. Carotenes are insoluble in water and soluble in oils and fats. ≠ soluble

in|sol|ven|cy / ɪns'ɒlv ə nsi / (insolvencies) [N-VAR] Insolvency is the state of not having enough money to pay your debts. (BUSINESS FORMAL) ...companies on the brink of insolvency...

in|sol|vent / ɪns'ɒlv ə nt / [ADJ] usu v-link ADJ A person or organization that is insolvent does not have enough money to pay their debts. (BUSINESS FORMAL) The bank was declared insolvent.

in|som|nia / ɪns'ɒmniə / [N-UNCOUNT] Someone who suffers from insomnia finds it difficult to sleep.

in|som|ni|ac / ɪns'ɒmniæk / (insomniacs) [N-COUNT] An insomniac is a person who finds it difficult to sleep.

in|sou|ci|ance / ɪns'uːsiəns / [N-UNCOUNT] Insouciance is lack of concern shown by someone about something which they might be expected to take more seriously. (FORMAL) He replied with characteristic insouciance: `So what?' = nonchalance

in|sou|ci|ant / ɪns'uːsiənt / [ADJ] An insouciant action or quality shows someone's lack of concern about something which they might be expected to take more seriously. (FORMAL) Programme-makers seem irresponsibly insouciant about churning out violence. = nonchalant

♦ in|spect / ɪnsp'ekt / (inspects inspecting inspected) 1 [VERB] V n If you inspect something, you look at every part of it carefully in order to find out about it or check that it is all right. Elaine went outside to inspect the playing field... = examine ● inspection [N-VAR] He had completed his inspection of the doors... 2 [VERB] V n When an official inspects a place or a group of people, they visit it and check it carefully, for example in order to find out whether regulations are being obeyed. The Public Utilities Commission inspects us once a year... ● inspection [N-VAR] Officers making a routine inspection of the vessel found fifty kilograms of the drug.

♦ in|spec|tor / ɪnsp'ektə r / (inspectors) 1 [N-COUNT] An inspector is a person, usually employed by a government agency, whose job is to find out whether people are obeying official regulations. The mill was finally shut down by state safety inspectors. 2 [N-COUNT; N-TITLE; N-VOC] In Britain, an inspector is an officer in the police who is higher in rank than a sergeant and lower in rank than a superintendent. I got on the phone to Inspector Joplin at Scotland Yard. 3 [N-COUNT; N-TITLE; N-VOC] In the United States, an inspector is an officer in the police who is next in rank to a superintendent or police chief. ...San Francisco police inspector Tony Camileri.

in|spec|tor|ate / ɪnsp'ektərət / (inspectorates) [N-COUNT] usu with supp An inspectorate is a group of inspectors who work on the same issue or area. ...the Nuclear Installations Inspectorate.

in|spi|ra|tion / 'ɪnspɪr'eɪʃ ə n / (inspirations) 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Inspiration is a feeling of enthusiasm you get from someone or something, which gives you new and creative ideas. My inspiration comes from poets like Baudelaire and Jacques Prévert... 2 [N-SING] an N, oft N to n If you describe someone or something good as an inspiration , you mean that they make you or other people want to do or achieve something. Powell's unusual journey to high office is an inspiration to millions... 3 [N-SING] oft the N for/behind n If something or someone is the inspiration for a particular book, work of art, or action, they are the source of the ideas in it or act as a model for it. India's myths and songs are the inspiration for her books... 4 [N-COUNT] If you suddenly have an inspiration , you suddenly think of an idea of what to do or say. Alison had an inspiration.

in|spi|ra|tion|al / 'ɪnspɪr'eɪʃən ə l / [ADJ] Something that is inspirational provides you with inspiration. Gandhi was an inspirational figure...

in|spire / ɪnsp'aɪ'ə r / (inspires inspiring inspired) 1 [VERB] V n to-inf If someone or something inspires you to do something new or unusual, they make you want to do it. Our challenge is to motivate those voters and inspire them to join our cause... 2 [VERB] V n If someone or something inspires you, they give you new ideas and a strong feeling of enthusiasm. Jimi Hendrix inspired a generation of guitarists. 3 [VERB] usu passive, be V-ed by n, V-ed If a book, work of art, or action is inspired by something, that thing is the source of the idea for it. The book was inspired by a real person, namely Tamara de Treaux. ...a political murder inspired by the same nationalist conflicts now wrecking the country. ● -inspired [COMB in ADJ] ...Mediterranean-inspired ceramics in bright yellow and blue... 4 [VERB] V n Someone or something that inspires a particular emotion or reaction in people makes them feel this emotion or reaction. The car...

in|spir|ing / ɪnsp'aɪ'ərɪŋ / [ADJ] Something or someone that is inspiring is exciting and makes you feel strongly interested and enthusiastic... She was one of the most inspiring people I've ever met...

in|stabil|ity / 'ɪnstəb'ɪlɪti / (instabilities) [N-UNCOUNT] also N in pl Instability is the quality of being unstable. ...unpopular policies, which resulted in social discontent and political instability. ≠ stability

♦ in|stall / ɪnst'ɔːl / (installs installing installed) also instal 1 [VERB] V n If you install a piece of equipment, you fit it or put it somewhere so that it is ready to be used. They had installed a new phone line in the apartment. ● installation [N-UNCOUNT] oft N of n Hundreds of lives could be saved if the installation of alarms was more widespread. 2 [VERB] be V-ed, be V-ed as n, V n If someone is installed in a new job or important position, they are officially given the job or position, often in a special ceremony. A new Catholic bishop was installed in Galway yesterday... Professor Sawyer was formally installed as President last Thursday... The army has promised to install a new government within a week. ● installation [N-UNCOUNT] oft with poss, N as n He sent a letter inviting Naomi to attend his installation as chief of his tribe. 3 [VERB] V pron-refl prep/adv If you install yourself in a particular place, you settle there and make...

in|stal|la|tion / 'ɪnstəl'eɪʃ ə n / (installations) [N-COUNT] usu supp N An installation is a place that contains equipment and machinery which are being used for a particular purpose. ...a nuclear installation. see also install

in|stall|ment plan (installment plans) [N-COUNT] An installment plan is a way of buying goods gradually. You make regular payments to the seller until, after some time, you have paid the full price and the goods belong to you. (AM; in BRIT, use hire purchase )

in|stal|ment / ɪnst'ɔːlmənt / (instalments) in AM, use installment 1 [N-COUNT] If you pay for something in instalments , you pay small sums of money at regular intervals over a period of time, rather than paying the whole amount at once. The first instalment of £1 per share is payable on application. 2 [N-COUNT] An instalment of a story or plan is one of its parts that are published or carried out separately one after the other. ...the disappointing third instalment of the Highlander series. = part

♦♦ in|stance / 'ɪnstəns / (instances) 1 [PHRASE] PHR with cl/group You use for instance to introduce a particular event, situation, or person that is an example of what you are talking about. There are a number of improvements; for instance, both mouse buttons can now be used... 2 [N-COUNT] An instance is a particular example or occurrence of something. ...an investigation into a serious instance of corruption. 3 [PHRASE] PHR with cl You say in the first instance to mention something that is the first step in a series of actions. In the first instance your child will be seen by an ear, nose and throat specialist...

♦ in|stant / 'ɪnstənt / (instants) 1 [N-COUNT] usu sing An instant is an extremely short period of time. For an instant, Catherine was tempted to flee... The pain disappeared in an instant. = moment 2 [N-SING] with supp, usu at/in N If you say that something happens at a particular instant , you mean that it happens at exactly the time you have been referring to, and you are usually suggesting that it happens quickly or immediately. At that instant the museum was plunged into total darkness... = moment 3 [PHRASE] To do something the instant something else happens means to do it immediately. I had bolted the door the instant I had seen the bat. 4 [ADJ] usu ADJ n You use instant to describe something that happens immediately. He had taken an instant dislike to Mortlake. = immediate ● instantly [ADV] ADV with v, ADV adj The man was killed instantly... 5 [ADJ] ADJ n Instant food is food that you can prepare very quickly, for example ...

in|stan|ta|neous / 'ɪnstənt'eɪniəs / [ADJ] Something that is instantaneous happens immediately and very quickly. Death was instantaneous because both bullets hit the heart. = immediate ● instantaneously [ADV] ADV with v Airbags inflate instantaneously on impact.

♦♦ in|stead / ɪnst'ed / 1 [PREP-PHRASE] PREP n/-ing If you do one thing instead of another, you do the first thing and not the second thing, as the result of a choice or a change of behaviour. They raised prices and cut production, instead of cutting costs... Instead of going to work thinking that it will be totally boring, try to be positive. 2 [ADV] ADV with cl If you do not do something, but do something else instead , you do the second thing and not the first thing, as the result of a choice or a change of behaviour. My husband asked why I couldn't just forget about dieting all the time and eat normally instead.

in|step / 'ɪnstep / (insteps) [N-COUNT] Your instep is the middle part of your foot, where it arches upwards.

in|sti|gate / 'ɪnstɪgeɪt / (instigates instigating instigated) [VERB] V n Someone who instigates an event causes it to happen. Jenkinson instigated a refurbishment of the old gallery... = initiate ● instigation [N-UNCOUNT] usu at/on N with poss The talks are taking place at the instigation of Germany...

in|sti|ga|tor / 'ɪnstɪgeɪtə r / (instigators) [N-COUNT] oft N of n The instigator of an event is the person who causes it to happen. He was accused of being the main instigator of the coup.

in|stil / ɪnst'ɪl / (instils instilling instilled) in AM, use instill [VERB] V n in/into n, V n If you instil an idea or feeling in someone, especially over a period of time, you make them think it or feel it. They hope that their work will instil a sense of responsibility in children... The motive of the executions would be to instil fear.

in|stinct / 'ɪnstɪŋkt / (instincts) 1 [N-VAR] Instinct is the natural tendency that a person or animal has to behave or react in a particular way. I didn't have as strong a maternal instinct as some other mothers... He always knew what time it was, as if by instinct. 2 [N-COUNT] oft N for n/-ing, N to-inf If you have an instinct for something, you are naturally good at it or able to do it. Farmers are increasingly losing touch with their instinct for managing the land... = aptitude 3 [N-VAR] usu with poss, oft N to-inf If it is your instinct to do something, you feel that it is right to do it. I should've gone with my first instinct, which was not to do the interview... 4 [N-VAR] oft N that Instinct is a feeling that you have that something is the case, rather than an opinion or idea based on facts. He seems so honest and genuine and my every instinct says he's not. = intuition kill|er in|stinct (killer instincts) [N-VAR] ...

in|stinc|tive / ɪnst'ɪŋktɪv / [ADJ] An instinctive feeling, idea, or action is one that you have or do without thinking or reasoning. It's an absolutely instinctive reaction-if a child falls you pick it up... = natural ● instinctively [ADV] ADV with v Jane instinctively knew all was not well with her 10-month old son.

in|stinc|tual / ɪnst'ɪŋktʃuəl / [ADJ] An instinctual feeling, action, or idea is one based on instinct. (WRITTEN) The relationship between a parent and a child is instinctual and stems from basic human nature. = instinctive

♦♦ in|sti|tute / 'ɪnstɪtjuːt, AM -tuːt / (institutes instituting instituted) 1 [N-COUNT; N-IN-NAMES] An institute is an organization set up to do a particular type of work, especially research or teaching. You can also use institute to refer to the building the organization occupies. ...an elite research institute devoted to computer software... 2 [VERB] V n If you institute a system, rule, or course of action, you start it. (FORMAL) We will institute a number of measures to better safeguard the public...

♦♦ in|sti|tu|tion / 'ɪnstɪtj'uːʃ ə n, AM -t'uː- / (institutions) 1 [N-COUNT; N-IN-NAMES] An institution is a large important organization such as a university, church, or bank. The Hong Kong Bank is Hong Kong's largest financial institution. 2 [N-COUNT; N-IN-NAMES] An institution is a building where certain people are looked after, for example people who are mentally ill or children who have no parents. Larry has been in an institution since he was four... 3 [N-COUNT] usu N of n An institution is a custom or system that is considered an important or typical feature of a particular society or group, usually because it has existed for a long time. I believe in the institution of marriage. 4 [N-UNCOUNT] usu N of n The institution of a new system is the act of starting it or bringing it in. There was never an official institution of censorship in Albania.

in|sti|tu|tion|al / 'ɪnstɪtj'uːʃən ə l, AM -t'uː- / 1 [ADJ] ADJ n Institutional means relating to a large organization, for example a university, bank, or church. The share price will be determined by bidding from institutional investors. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n Institutional means relating to a building where people are looked after or held. Outside the protected environment of institutional care he could not survive. 3 [ADJ] ADJ n An institutional value or quality is considered an important and typical feature of a particular society or group, usually because it has existed for a long time. ...social and institutional values. 4 [ADJ] usu ADJ n If someone accuses an organization of institutional racism or sexism, they mean that the organization is deeply racist or sexist and has been so for a long time. ...the Macpherson report, which accused the Metropolitan Police of institutional racism. ● institutionally [ADV] ADV adj ...the Government's...

in|sti|tu|tion|al|ize / 'ɪnstɪtj'uːʃənəlaɪz, AM -t'uː- / (institutionalizes institutionalizing institutionalized) in BRIT, also use institutionalise 1 [VERB] usu passive, be V-ed, V-ed If someone such as a sick, mentally ill, or old person is institutionalized , they are sent to stay in a special hospital or home, usually for a long period. She became seriously ill and had to be institutionalized for a lengthy period. ...institutionalized kids with medical problems. ● institutionalization [N-UNCOUNT] Institutionalization was necessary when his wife became both blind and violent. 2 [VERB] V n, V-ed To institutionalize something means to establish it as part of a culture, social system, or organization. The goal is to institutionalize family planning into community life... In the first century there was no such thing as institutionalized religion. ● institutionalization [N-UNCOUNT] ...the institutionalization of social change.

in|struct / ɪnstr'ʌkt / (instructs instructing instructed) 1 [VERB] V n to-inf, V with quote, V n that, also V n with quote If you instruct someone to do something, you formally tell them to do it. (FORMAL) The family has instructed solicitors to sue Thomson for compensation... `Go and have a word with her, Ken,' Webb instructed... I want you to instruct them that they've got three months to get the details sorted out. 2 [VERB] V n in/on n, also V Someone who instructs people in a subject or skill teaches it to them. He instructed family members in nursing techniques.

♦ in|struc|tion / ɪnstr'ʌkʃ ə n / (instructions) 1 [N-COUNT] An instruction is something that someone tells you to do. Two lawyers were told not to leave the building but no reason for this instruction was given. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] usu with supp If someone gives you instruction in a subject or skill, they teach it to you. (FORMAL) Each candidate is given instruction in safety... 3 [N-PLURAL] Instructions are clear and detailed information on how to do something. Always read the instructions before you start taking the medicine.

in|struc|tion|al / ɪnstr'ʌkʃən ə l / [ADJ] usu ADJ n Instructional books or films are meant to teach people something or to offer them help with a particular problem. ...instructional material designed to help you with your lifestyle...

in|struc|tive / ɪnstr'ʌktɪv / [ADJ] oft it v-link ADJ to-inf Something that is instructive gives useful information. ...an entertaining and instructive documentary. = informative

in|struc|tor / ɪnstr'ʌktə r / (instructors) [N-COUNT] oft n N An instructor is someone who teaches a skill such as driving or skiing. In American English, instructor can also be used to refer to a schoolteacher or to a university teacher of low rank. ...tuition from an approved driving instructor.

♦ in|stru|ment / 'ɪnstrəmənt / (instruments) 1 [N-COUNT] usu with supp An instrument is a tool or device that is used to do a particular task, especially a scientific task. ...instruments for cleaning and polishing teeth... The environment itself will at the same time be measured by about 60 scientific instruments. 2 [N-COUNT] oft supp N A musical instrument is an object such as a piano, guitar, or flute, which you play in order to produce music. Learning a musical instrument introduces a child to an understanding of music. 3 [N-COUNT] oft supp N An instrument is a device that is used for making measurements of something such as speed, height, or sound, for example on a ship or plane or in a car. ...crucial instruments on the control panel. 4 [N-COUNT] oft N of n Something that is an instrument for achieving a particular aim is used by people to achieve that aim. The veto has been a traditional instrument of diplomacy for centuries. 5 see als...

in|stru|men|tal / 'ɪnstrəm'ent ə l / (instrumentals) 1 [ADJ] usu v-link ADJ, oft ADJ in -ing/n Someone or something that is instrumental in a process or event helps to make it happen. In his first years as chairman he was instrumental in raising the company's wider profile... 2 [ADJ] ADJ n Instrumental music is performed by instruments and not by voices. ...a cassette recording of vocal and instrumental music. [N-COUNT] usu pl Instrumentals are pieces of instrumental music. The last track on the CD is an instrumental.

in|stru|men|tal|ist / 'ɪnstrəm'entəlɪst / (instrumentalists) [N-COUNT] An instrumentalist is someone who plays a musical instrument. = musician

in|stru|men|ta|tion / 'ɪnstrəment'eɪʃ ə n / [N-UNCOUNT] Instrumentation is a group or collection of instruments, usually ones that are part of the same machine. Basic flight instrumentation was similar on both planes...

in|sub|or|di|nate / 'ɪnsəb'ɔː r dɪnət / [ADJ] If you say that someone is insubordinate , you mean that they do not obey someone of higher rank. (FORMAL) In industry, a worker who is grossly insubordinate is threatened with discharge.

in|sub|or|di|na|tion / 'ɪnsəbɔː r dɪn'eɪʃ ə n / [N-UNCOUNT] Insubordination is a refusal to obey someone of higher rank. (FORMAL) Hansen and his partner were fired for insubordination.

in|sub|stan|tial / 'ɪnsəbst'ænʃ ə l / [ADJ] Something that is insubstantial is not large, solid, or strong. Mars has an insubstantial atmosphere, consisting almost entirely of carbon dioxide...

in|suf|fer|able / ɪns'ʌfrəb ə l / [ADJ] If you say that someone or something is insufferable , you are emphasizing that they are very unpleasant or annoying. (FORMAL) He was an insufferable bore. = unbearable ● insufferably [ADV] ADV adj His letters are insufferably dull...

in|suf|fi|cient / 'ɪnsəf'ɪʃ ə nt / [ADJ] oft ADJ to-inf, ADJ for n Something that is insufficient is not large enough in amount or degree for a particular purpose. (FORMAL) He decided there was insufficient evidence to justify criminal proceedings... = inadequate ● insufficiency [N-UNCOUNT] Late miscarriages are usually not due to hormonal insufficiency. ● insufficiently [ADV] ADV adj/-ed Food that is insufficiently cooked can lead to food poisoning.

in|su|lar / 'ɪnsjʊlə r , AM -sə- / [ADJ] If you say that someone is insular , you are being critical of them because they are unwilling to meet new people or to consider new ideas. ...the old image of the insular, xenophobic Brit. ● insularity [N-UNCOUNT] But at least they have started to break out of their old insularity.

in|su|late / 'ɪnsjʊleɪt, AM -sə- / (insulates insulating insulated) 1 [VERB] be V-ed from/against n, V n from/against n If a person or group is insulated from the rest of society or from outside influences, they are protected from them. They wonder if their community is no longer insulated from big city problems... Their wealth had insulated them from reality. = shield ● insulation [N-UNCOUNT] They lived in happy insulation from brutal facts. 2 [VERB] V n, V n from/against n, V-ed To insulate something such as a building means to protect it from cold or noise by covering it or surrounding it in a thick layer. It will take almost 25 years to insulate the homes of the six million households that require this assistance... Is there any way we can insulate our home from the noise?... Are your hot and cold water pipes well insulated? 3 [VERB] be V-ed If a piece of equipment is insulated , it is covered with rubber or plastic to prevent electricity...

in|su|la|tion / 'ɪnsjʊl'eɪʃ ə n, AM -sə- / [N-UNCOUNT] Insulation is a thick layer of a substance that keeps something warm, especially a building. High electricity bills point to a poor heating system or bad insulation... see also insulate

in|su|la|tor / 'ɪnsjʊleɪtə r , AM -sə- / (insulators) [N-COUNT] usu sing An insulator is a material that insulates something. Fat is an excellent insulator against the cold.

in|su|lin / 'ɪnsjʊlɪn, AM -sə- / [N-UNCOUNT] Insulin is a substance that most people produce naturally in their body and which controls the level of sugar in their blood. In diabetes the body produces insufficient insulin.

in|sult (insults insulting insulted) The verb is pronounced / ɪns'ʌlt / The noun is pronounced / 'ɪnsʌlt / 1 [VERB] V n If someone insults you, they say or do something that is rude or offensive. I did not mean to insult you... ● insulted [ADJ] usu v-link ADJ I would be a bit insulted if he said anything like that. 2 [N-COUNT] oft N to n An insult is a rude remark, or something a person says or does which insults you. Their behaviour was an insult to the people they represent... 3 [PHRASE] V inflects, PHR with cl You say to add insult to injury when mentioning an action or fact that makes an unfair or unacceptable situation even worse.

in|sult|ing / ɪns'ʌltɪŋ / [ADJ] oft ADJ to n Something that is insulting is rude or offensive. The article was insulting to the families of British citizens... = offensive ● insultingly [ADV] ADV with v, ADV adj Anthony laughed loudly and insultingly...

in|su|per|able / ɪns'uːpərəb ə l / [ADJ] A problem that is insuperable cannot be dealt with successfully. (FORMAL) ...an insuperable obstacle to negotiations. = insurmountable

in|sup|port|able / 'ɪnsəp'ɔː r təb ə l / [ADJ] If you say that something is insupportable , you mean that it cannot be coped with or accepted. (FORMAL) Too much spending on rearmament would place an insupportable burden on the nation's productive capacity... Life without Anna had no savour, was tedious, insupportable. = intolerable

♦♦ in|sur|ance / ɪnʃ'ʊərəns / (insurances) 1 [N-VAR] oft N n Insurance is an arrangement in which you pay money to a company, and they pay money to you if something unpleasant happens to you, for example if your property is stolen or damaged, or if you get a serious illness. The insurance company paid out for the stolen jewellery and silver... We recommend that you take out travel insurance on all holidays. 2 [N-VAR] usu N against n If you do something as insurance against something unpleasant happening, you do it to protect yourself in case the unpleasant thing happens. The country needs a defence capability as insurance against the unexpected. in|sur|ance ad|just|er (insurance adjusters) [N-COUNT] An insurance adjuster is the same as a claims adjuster . (AM BUSINESS; in BRIT, use loss adjuster ) life in|sur|ance [N-UNCOUNT] Life insurance is a form of insurance in which a person makes regular payments to an insurance company, in return for a sum of...

in|sure / ɪnʃ'ʊə r / (insures insuring insured) 1 [VERB] V n, V against/for n, V n against/for n If you insure yourself or your property, you pay money to an insurance company so that, if you become ill or if your property is damaged or stolen, the company will pay you a sum of money. For protection against unforeseen emergencies, you insure your house, your furnishings and your car... Think carefully before you insure against accident, sickness and redundancy... We automatically insure your belongings against fire and theft. 2 [VERB] V pron-refl against n, V against n If you insure yourself against something unpleasant that might happen in the future, you do something to protect yourself in case it happens, or to prevent it happening. He insured himself against failure by treating only people he was sure he could cure... All the electronics in the world cannot insure against accidents, though. 3 see also ensure

in|sured / ɪnʃ'ʊə r d / (insured) [N-COUNT] usu sing, the N The insured is the person who is insured by a particular policy. (LEGAL) Once the insured has sold his policy, he naturally loses all rights to it.

in|sur|er / ɪnʃ'ʊərə r / (insurers) [N-COUNT] An insurer is a company that sells insurance. (BUSINESS)