2 ADJ If you say that you are inclined to have a particular opinion, you mean that you hold this opinion but you are not expressing it strongly. [VAGUENESS ] □ I am inclined to agree with Alan.
3 ADJ [adv ADJ ] Someone who is mathematically inclined or artistically inclined , for example, has a natural talent for mathematics or art. □ …the needs of academically inclined pupils.
4 → see also incline
in|clude ◆◆◆ / I nkluː d/ (includes , including , included )
1 VERB If one thing includes another thing, it has the other thing as one of its parts. □ [V n] The trip has been extended to include a few other events.
2 VERB If someone or something is included in a large group, system, or area, they become a part of it or are considered a part of it. □ [be V -ed + in ] I had worked hard to be included in a project like this. □ [V n + in ] The President is expected to include this idea in his education plan.
in|clud|ed ◆◆◇ / I nkluː d I d/ ADJ [n ADJ , v-link ADJ ] You use included to emphasize that a person or thing is part of the group of people or things that you are talking about. [EMPHASIS ] □ All of us, myself included, had been totally committed to the Party. □ Food is included in the price.
in|clud|ing ◆◆◆ / I nkluː d I ŋ/ PREP You use including to introduce examples of people or things that are part of the group of people or things that you are talking about. □ Stars including Joan Collins are expected to attend.
in|clu|sion / I nkluː ʒ ə n/ (inclusions ) N‑VAR [usu with poss] Inclusion is the act of making a person or thing part of a group or collection. □ [+ in ] …a confident performance which justified his inclusion in the team.
in|clu|sive / I nkluː s I v/
1 ADJ If a price is inclusive , it includes all the charges connected with the goods or services offered. If a price is inclusive of postage and packing, it includes the charge for this. □ [+ of ] …all prices are inclusive of delivery. □ …an inclusive price of £32.90. ● ADV Inclusive is also an adverb. □ …a special introductory offer of £5,995 fully inclusive.
2 → see also all-inclusive
3 ADJ [n ADJ ] After stating the first and last item in a set of things, you can add inclusive to make it clear that the items stated are included in the set. □ Training will commence on 5 October, running from Tuesday to Saturday inclusive.
4 ADJ If you describe a group or organization as inclusive , you mean that it allows all kinds of people to belong to it, rather than just one kind of person. □ The academy is far more inclusive now than it used to be.
in|cog|ni|to / I nkɒgniː toʊ/ ADJ [v-link ADJ , ADJ after v] Someone who is incognito is using a false name or wearing a disguise, in order not to be recognized or identified. □ Hotel inspectors have to travel incognito.
in|co|her|ent / I nkoʊh I ə rənt/
1 ADJ If someone is incoherent , they are talking in a confused and unclear way. □ [+ with ] The man was almost incoherent with fear. ● in|co|her|ence N‑UNCOUNT □ Beth's incoherence told Amy that something was terribly wrong. ● in|co|her|ent|ly ADV [ADV with v] □ He collapsed on the floor, mumbling incoherently.
2 ADJ If you say that something such as a policy is incoherent , you are criticizing it because the different parts of it do not fit together properly. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ …an incoherent set of objectives. ● in|co|her|ence N‑UNCOUNT □ [+ of ] …the general incoherence of government policy.
in|come ◆◆◇ / I nkʌm/ (incomes ) N‑VAR A person's or organization's income is the money that they earn or receive, as opposed to the money that they have to spend or pay out. □ Many families on low incomes will be unable to afford to buy their own home. SYNONYMS income NOUN
earnings: Average weekly earnings rose by 1.5% in July.
revenue: The cinema has seen record advertising revenue and ticket sales.
proceeds: The proceeds from the concert will go towards famine relief.
receipts: He was tallying the day's receipts.
takings: Their takings were fifteen to twenty thousand pounds a week.
in|comer / I nkʌmə r / (incomers ) N‑COUNT An incomer is someone who has recently come to live in a particular place or area. [mainly BRIT ]
i n|come sup|po rt N‑UNCOUNT In Britain, income support is money that the government gives regularly to people with no income or very low incomes.
i n|come tax (income taxes ) N‑VAR Income tax is a certain percentage of your income that you have to pay regularly to the government.
in|com|ing / I nkʌm I ŋ/
1 ADJ [ADJ n] An incoming message or phone call is one that you receive. □ We keep a record of incoming calls.
2 ADJ [ADJ n] An incoming plane or passenger is one that is arriving at a place. □ The airport was closed for incoming flights.
3 ADJ [ADJ n] An incoming official or government is one that has just been appointed or elected. □ …the problems confronting the incoming government.
in|com|mu|ni|ca|do / I nkəmjuːn I kɑː doʊ/
1 ADJ If someone is being kept incommunicado , they are not allowed to talk to anyone outside the place where they are. □ He was held incommunicado in prison for ten days before being released without charge.
2 ADJ [v-link ADJ ] If someone is incommunicado , they do not want to be disturbed, or are in a place where they cannot be contacted. □ Yesterday she was incommunicado, putting the finishing touches to her autobiography.
in|com|pa|rable / I nkɒ mprəb ə l/
1 ADJ If you describe someone or something as incomparable , you mean that they are extremely good or impressive. □ …paintings by the incomparable Salvador Dali.
2 ADJ [ADJ n] You use incomparable to emphasize that someone or something has a good quality to a great degree. [FORMAL , EMPHASIS ] □ …an area of incomparable beauty.
in|com|pa|rably / I nkɒ mprəbli/ ADV You can use incomparably to mean 'very much' when you are comparing two things and emphasizing the difference between them. [FORMAL , EMPHASIS ] □ …his incomparably brilliant love songs.
in|com|pat|ible / I nkəmpæ t I b ə l/
1 ADJ [usu v-link ADJ ] If one thing or person is incompatible with another, they are very different in important ways, and do not suit each other or agree with each other. □ [+ with ] They feel strongly that their religion is incompatible with the political system. ● in|com|pat|ibil|ity / I nkəmpæt I b I l I ti/ N‑UNCOUNT □ [+ between ] Incompatibility between the mother's and the baby's blood groups may cause jaundice. [Also + of/with ]
2 ADJ If one type of computer or computer system is incompatible with another, they cannot use the same programs or be linked up together. □ [+ with ] This made its mini-computers incompatible with its mainframes.
in|com|pe|tence / I nkɒ mp I təns/ N‑UNCOUNT If you refer to someone's incompetence , you are criticizing them because they are unable to do their job or a task properly. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ [+ of ] The incompetence of government officials is appalling.
in|com|pe|tent / I nkɒ mp I tənt/ (incompetents ) ADJ If you describe someone as incompetent , you are criticizing them because they are unable to do their job or a task properly. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ He wants the power to sack incompetent teachers. ● N‑COUNT An incompetent is someone who is incompetent. □ I'm surrounded by incompetents!
in|com|plete / I nkəmpliː t/ ADJ Something that is incomplete is not yet finished, or does not have all the parts or details that it needs. □ The clearing of rubbish and drains is still incomplete.
in|com|pre|hen|sible / I nkɒmpr I he ns I b ə l/ ADJ Something that is incomprehensible is impossible to understand. □ …incomprehensible mathematics puzzles.
in|com|pre|hen|sion / I nkɒmpr I he nʃ ə n/ N‑UNCOUNT Incomprehension is the state of being unable to understand something or someone. □ Rosie had a look of incomprehension on her face.
in|con|ceiv|able / I nkənsiː vəb ə l/ ADJ [usu v-link ADJ ] If you describe something as inconceivable , you think it is very unlikely to happen or be true. □ It was inconceivable to me that Toby could have been my attacker.
in|con|clu|sive / I nkənkluː s I v/
1 ADJ If research or evidence is inconclusive , it has not proved anything. □ Research has so far proved inconclusive.
2 ADJ If a contest or conflict is inconclusive , it is not clear who has won or who is winning. □ The past two elections were inconclusive.
in|con|gru|ity / I nkɒŋgruː I ti/ (incongruities ) N‑VAR The incongruity of something is its strangeness when considered together with other aspects of a situation. [FORMAL ] □ [+ of ] She smiled at the incongruity of the question.
in|con|gru|ous / I nkɒ ŋgruəs/ ADJ Someone or something that is incongruous seems strange when considered together with other aspects of a situation. [FORMAL ] □ She was small and fragile and looked incongruous in an army uniform. ● in|con|gru|ous|ly ADV [ADV after v, ADV adj/-ed] □ …buildings perched incongruously in a high green valley.
in|con|sequen|tial / I nkɒns I kwe nʃ ə l/ ADJ Something that is inconsequential is not important. □ …a constant reminder of just how insignificant and inconsequential their lives were.
in|con|sid|er|able / I nkəns I dərəb ə l/ ADJ [with neg, usu ADJ n] If you describe an amount or quality as not inconsiderable , you are emphasizing that it is, in fact, large or present to a large degree. [EMPHASIS ] □ The production costs are a not inconsiderable £8 million.
in|con|sid|er|ate / I nkəns I dərət/ ADJ If you accuse someone of being inconsiderate , you mean that they do not take enough care over how their words or actions will affect other people. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ [+ to ] Motorists were criticised for being inconsiderate to pedestrians.
in|con|sist|en|cy / I nkəns I stənsi/ (inconsistencies )
1 N‑UNCOUNT If you refer to someone's inconsistency , you are criticizing them for not behaving in the same way every time a similar situation occurs. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ His worst fault was his inconsistency.
2 N‑VAR If there are inconsistencies in two statements, one cannot be true if the other is true. □ [+ in ] We were asked to investigate the alleged inconsistencies in his evidence.
in|con|sist|ent / I nkəns I stənt/
1 ADJ If you describe someone as inconsistent , you are criticizing them for not behaving in the same way every time a similar situation occurs. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ You are inconsistent and unpredictable.
2 ADJ Someone or something that is inconsistent does not stay the same, being sometimes good and sometimes bad. □ We had a terrific start to the season, but recently we've been inconsistent.
3 ADJ If two statements are inconsistent , one cannot possibly be true if the other is true. □ [+ with ] The evidence given in court was inconsistent with what he had previously told them.
4 ADJ [v-link ADJ with n] If something is inconsistent with a set of ideas or values, it does not fit in well with them or match them. □ [+ with ] This legislation is inconsistent with what they call Free Trade.
in|con|sol|able / I nkənsoʊ ləb ə l/ ADJ If you say that someone is inconsolable , you mean that they are very sad and cannot be comforted. □ When my mother died I was inconsolable.
in|con|spicu|ous / I nkənsp I kjuəs/
1 ADJ Someone who is inconspicuous does not attract attention to themselves. □ I'll try to be as inconspicuous as possible. ● in|con|spicu|ous|ly ADV [ADV after v] □ I sat inconspicuously in a corner.
2 ADJ Something that is inconspicuous is not easily seen or does not attract attention because it is small, ordinary, or hidden away. □ …an inconspicuous grey building.
in|con|ti|nence / I nkɒ nt I nəns/ N‑UNCOUNT Incontinence is the inability to prevent urine or faeces coming out of your body. □ Incontinence is not just a condition of old age.
in|con|ti|nent / I nkɒ nt I nənt/ ADJ Someone who is incontinent is unable to prevent urine or faeces coming out of their body. □ His diseased bladder left him incontinent.
in|con|tro|vert|ible / I nkɒntrəvɜː r t I b ə l/ ADJ Incontrovertible evidence or facts are absolutely certain and cannot be shown to be wrong. □ We have incontrovertible evidence of what took place. ● in|con|tro|vert|ibly ADV □ No solution is incontrovertibly right.
in|con|ven|ience / I nkənviː niəns/ (inconveniences , inconveniencing , inconvenienced )
1 N‑VAR If someone or something causes inconvenience , they cause problems or difficulties. □ We apologize for any inconvenience caused during the repairs.
2 VERB If someone inconveniences you, they cause problems or difficulties for you. □ [V n] He promised to be quick so as not to inconvenience them any further.
in|con|ven|ient / I nkənviː niənt/ ADJ Something that is inconvenient causes problems or difficulties for someone. □ [+ for ] Can you come at 10.30? I know it's inconvenient for you, but I must see you. ● in|con|ven|ient|ly ADV □ The Oriental is a comfortable hotel, but rather inconveniently situated.
in|cor|po|rate / I nkɔː r pəre I t/ (incorporates , incorporating , incorporated )
1 VERB If one thing incorporates another thing, it includes the other thing. [FORMAL ] □ [V n] The new cars will incorporate a number of major improvements.
2 VERB If someone or something is incorporated into a large group, system, or area, they become a part of it. [FORMAL ] □ [be V -ed + into ] The agreement would allow the rebels to be incorporated into a new national police force. □ [V n + into ] The party vowed to incorporate environmental considerations into all its policies. ● in|cor|po|ra|tion / I nkɔː r pəre I ʃ ə n/ N‑UNCOUNT □ [+ of ] …the incorporation of Piedmont Airlines and PSA into U.S. Air.
In|cor|po|rated / I nkɔː r pəre I t I d/ ADJ [n ADJ ] Incorporated is used after a company's name to show that it is a legally established company in the United States. [AM , BUSINESS ] □ …MCA Incorporated.
in|cor|rect / I nkəre kt/
1 ADJ Something that is incorrect is wrong and untrue. □ He denied that his evidence about the phone call was incorrect. ● in|cor|rect|ly ADV [ADV with v] □ The magazine suggested incorrectly that he was planning to retire.
2 ADJ [usu ADJ n] Something that is incorrect is not the thing that is required or is most suitable in a particular situation. □ …injuries caused by incorrect posture. ● in|cor|rect|ly ADV [ADV with v] □ He was told that the doors had been fitted incorrectly.
in|cor|ri|gible / I nkɒ r I dʒəb ə l, [AM ] -kɔː r-/ ADJ If you tell someone they are incorrigible , you are saying, often in a humorous way, that they have faults which will never change. □ 'Sue, you are incorrigible!' he said. □ Gamblers are incorrigible optimists.
in|cor|rupt|ible / I nkərʌ pt I b ə l/ ADJ If you describe someone as incorruptible , you approve of the fact that they cannot be persuaded or paid to do things that they should not do. [APPROVAL ] □ He was a sound businessman, totally reliable and incorruptible.
in|crease ◆◆◆ (increases , increasing , increased ) The verb is pronounced / I nkriː s/. The noun is pronounced / I nkriːs/. 1 VERB If something increases or you increase it, it becomes greater in number, level, or amount. □ [V ] The population continues to increase. □ [V + by/from/to ] Japan's industrial output increased by 2%. □ [V n] The company has increased the price of its cars.
2 N‑COUNT If there is an increase in the number, level, or amount of something, it becomes greater. □ [+ in ] …a sharp increase in productivity.
3 PHRASE If something is on the increase , it is happening more often or becoming greater in number or intensity. □ Crime is on the increase. SYNONYMS increase VERB 1
expand: We have to expand the size of the image.
rise: The number of business failures has risen.
raise: The Republic of Ireland is expected to raise interest rates.
boost: The move is designed to boost sales during the peak booking months.
extend: This year they have introduced three new products to extend their range.
grow: Opposition grew and the government agreed to negotiate. NOUN 2
growth: The area has seen a rapid population growth.
rise: …the prospect of another rise in interest rates.
boost: It would get the economy going and give us the boost that we need.
expansion: …the rapid expansion of private health insurance.
development: …an ideal system for studying the development of the embryo.
in|creas|ing|ly ◆◆◇ / I nkriː s I ŋli/ ADV [ADV adj, ADV with v] You can use increasingly to indicate that a situation or quality is becoming greater in intensity or more common. □ He was finding it increasingly difficult to make decisions. □ Increasingly, their goals have become more radical. SYNONYMS increasingly ADV
progressively: Her symptoms became progressively worse.
more and more: Bob became more and more furious.
in|cred|ible ◆◇◇ / I nkre d I b ə l/
1 ADJ If you describe something or someone as incredible , you like them very much or are impressed by them, because they are extremely or unusually good. [APPROVAL ] □ The wildflowers will be incredible after this rain. ● in|cred|ibly / I nkre d I bli/ ADV [ADV adj/adv] □ Their father was incredibly good-looking.
2 ADJ If you say that something is incredible , you mean that it is very unusual or surprising, and you cannot believe it is really true, although it may be. □ It seemed incredible that people would still want to play football during a war. ● in|cred|ibly ADV □ Incredibly, some people don't like the name.
3 ADJ [usu ADJ n, v-link ADJ ] You use incredible to emphasize the degree, amount, or intensity of something. [EMPHASIS ] □ It's incredible how much Francesca wants her father's approval. ● in|cred|ibly ADV [ADV adj/adv] □ It was incredibly hard work.
in|cre|du|lity / I nkr I djuː l I ti, [AM ] -duː l-/ N‑UNCOUNT If someone reacts with incredulity to something, they are unable to believe it because it is very surprising or shocking. □ The announcement has been met with incredulity.
in|credu|lous / I nkre djʊləs/ ADJ If someone is incredulous , they are unable to believe something because it is very surprising or shocking. □ 'He made you do it?' Her voice was incredulous. ● in|credu|lous|ly ADV [ADV with v] □ 'You told Pete?' Rachel said incredulously. 'I can't believe it!'
in|cre|ment / I nkr I mənt/ (increments )
1 N‑COUNT An increment in something or in the value of something is an amount by which it increases. [FORMAL ] □ [+ in/of ] The average yearly increment in labour productivity in industry was 4.5 per cent.
2 N‑COUNT An increment is an amount by which your salary automatically increases after a fixed period of time. [FORMAL ] □ Many teachers qualify for an annual increment.
in|cre|men|tal / I nkr I me nt ə l/ ADJ [usu ADJ n] Incremental is used to describe something that increases in value or worth, often by a regular amount. [FORMAL ] □ …our ability to add production capacity at relatively low incremental cost.
in|crimi|nate / I nkr I m I ne I t/ (incriminates , incriminating , incriminated ) VERB If something incriminates you, it suggests that you are responsible for something bad, especially a crime. □ [V n] He claimed that the drugs had been planted to incriminate him. □ [V pron-refl] They are afraid of incriminating themselves and say no more than is necessary. ● in|crimi|nat|ing ADJ [usu ADJ n] □ Police had reportedly searched his flat and found incriminating evidence.
in|cu|bate / I nkjʊbe I t/ (incubates , incubating , incubated )
1 VERB When birds incubate their eggs, they keep the eggs warm until the baby birds come out. □ [V n] The birds returned to their nests and continued to incubate the eggs. [Also V ] ● in|cu|ba|tion / I nkjʊbe I ʃ ə n/ N‑UNCOUNT □ [+ of ] Male albatrosses share in the incubation of eggs.
2 VERB When a germ in your body incubates or is incubated , it develops for a period of time before it starts making you feel ill. □ [V ] The virus can incubate for up to ten days after the initial infection. [Also V n] ● in|cu|ba|tion N‑UNCOUNT [usu N n] □ The illness has an incubation period of up to 11 days.
in|cu|ba|tor / I nkjʊbe I tə r / (incubators )
1 N‑COUNT An incubator is a piece of hospital equipment which helps weak or small babies to survive. It consists of a transparent container in which the oxygen and temperature levels can be controlled.
2 N‑COUNT An incubator is a piece of equipment used to keep eggs or bacteria at the correct temperature for them to develop.
in|cul|cate / I nkʌlke I t, [AM ] I nkʌ l-/ (inculcates , inculcating , inculcated ) VERB If you inculcate an idea or opinion in someone's mind, you teach it to them by repeating it until it is fixed in their mind. [FORMAL ] □ [V n + in ] We have tried to inculcate a feeling of citizenship in youngsters. □ [V n + with ] The aim is to inculcate business people with an appreciation of different cultures. □ [V n] Great care was taken to inculcate the values of nationhood and family.
in|cum|bent / I nkʌ mbənt/ (incumbents )
1 N‑COUNT An incumbent is someone who holds an official post at a particular time. [FORMAL ] □ In general, incumbents have a 94 per cent chance of being re-elected. ● ADJ [ADJ n] Incumbent is also an adjective. □ …the only candidate who defeated an incumbent senator.
2 ADJ If it is incumbent upon you to do something, it is your duty or responsibility to do it. [FORMAL ] □ It is incumbent upon all of us to make an extra effort.
in|cur / I nkɜː r / (incurs , incurring , incurred ) VERB If you incur something unpleasant, it happens to you because of something you have done. [WRITTEN ] □ [V n] The government had also incurred huge debts. □ [V -ed] …the terrible damage incurred during the past decade.
in|cur|able / I nkjʊə rəb ə l/
1 ADJ If someone has an incurable disease, they cannot be cured of it. □ He is suffering from an incurable skin disease. ● in|cur|ably / I nkjʊə rəbli/ ADV [ADV adj] □ …youngsters who are incurably ill.
2 ADJ [ADJ n] You can use incurable to indicate that someone has a particular quality or attitude and will not change. □ Poor old William is an incurable romantic. ● in|cur|ably ADV [ADV adj] □ I know you think I'm incurably nosey.
in|cur|sion / I nkɜː r ʃ ə n, -ʒ ə n/ (incursions )
1 N‑COUNT If there is an incursion into a country, enemy soldiers suddenly enter it. [FORMAL ] □ [+ into ] …armed incursions into border areas by rebel forces.
2 N‑COUNT If someone or something enters an area where you would not expect them to be, or where they have not been found before, you can call this an incursion , especially when you disapprove of their presence. [FORMAL ] □ [+ into ] …her disastrous incursion into the property market.
in|debt|ed / I nde t I d/
1 ADJ If you say that you are indebted to someone for something, you mean that you are very grateful to them for something. □ [+ to ] I am deeply indebted to him for his help. ● in|debt|ed|ness N‑UNCOUNT □ [+ to ] Mortimer recounted his indebtedness to her in his autobiography.
2 ADJ [usu ADJ n] Indebted countries, organizations, or people are ones that owe money to other countries, organizations, or people. □ America's treasury secretary identified the most heavily indebted countries. ● in|debt|ed|ness N‑UNCOUNT □ The company has reduced its indebtedness to just $15 million.
in|de|cen|cy / I ndiː s ə nsi/
1 N‑UNCOUNT If you talk about the indecency of something or someone, you are indicating that you find them morally or sexually offensive. □ [+ of ] …the indecency of their language.
2 N‑UNCOUNT In law, an act of indecency is an illegal sexual act. □ They were found guilty of acts of gross indecency.
in|de|cent / I ndiː s ə nt/
1 ADJ If you describe something as indecent , you mean that it is shocking and offensive, usually because it relates to sex or nakedness. □ He accused Mrs Moore of making an indecent suggestion. ● in|de|cent|ly ADV [ADV with v, ADV adj] □ …an indecently short skirt.
2 ADJ If you describe the speed or amount of something as indecent , you are indicating, often in a humorous way, that it is much quicker or larger than is usual or desirable. □ The opposition says the legislation was drafted with indecent haste. ● in|de|cent|ly ADV □ …an indecently large office.
in|de |cent as|sau lt N‑UNCOUNT Indecent assault is the crime of attacking someone in a way which involves touching or threatening them sexually, but not forcing them to have sexual intercourse.
in|de |cent ex|po |sure N‑UNCOUNT Indecent exposure is a criminal offence that is committed when someone exposes their genitals in public.
in|de|ci|pher|able / I nd I sa I fərəb ə l/ ADJ If writing or speech is indecipherable , you cannot understand what the words are. □ Maggie's writing was virtually indecipherable. □ He uttered little indecipherable sounds.
in|de|ci|sion / I nd I s I ʒ ə n/ N‑UNCOUNT If you say that someone suffers from indecision , you mean that they find it very difficult to make decisions. □ After months of indecision, the government gave the plan the go-ahead on Monday.
in|de|ci|sive / I nd I sa I s I v/
1 ADJ If you say that someone is indecisive , you mean that they find it very difficult to make decisions. □ He was criticised as a weak and indecisive leader. ● in|de|ci|sive|ness N‑UNCOUNT [oft with poss] □ The mayor was criticized by radical reformers for his indecisiveness.
2 ADJ An indecisive result in a contest or election is one which is not clear or definite. □ The outcome of the battle was indecisive.
in|deed ◆◆◇ / I ndiː d/
1 ADV [ADV with v] You use indeed to confirm or agree with something that has just been said. [EMPHASIS ] □ Later, he admitted that the payments had indeed been made. □ 'Did you know him?'—'I did indeed.'. □ 'That's a topic which has come to the fore very much recently.'—'Indeed.'
2 ADV You use indeed to introduce a further comment or statement which strengthens the point you have already made. [EMPHASIS ] □ We have nothing against diversity; indeed, we want more of it.
3 ADV [adj ADV ] You use indeed at the end of a clause to give extra force to the word 'very', or to emphasize a particular word. [EMPHASIS ] □ The engine began to sound very loud indeed.
in|de|fati|gable / I nd I fæ t I gəb ə l/ ADJ You use indefatigable to describe someone who never gets tired of doing something. [FORMAL ] □ His indefatigable spirit helped him to cope with his illness. ● in|de|fati|gab|ly / I nd I fæ t I gəbli/ ADV [ADV with v, ADV adj] □ She worked indefatigably and enthusiastically to interest the young in music.
in|de|fen|sible / I nd I fe ns I b ə l/
1 ADJ If you say that a statement, action, or idea is indefensible , you mean that it cannot be justified or supported because it is completely wrong or unacceptable. □ She described the new policy as 'morally indefensible'.
2 ADJ Places or buildings that are indefensible cannot be defended if they are attacked. □ The checkpoint was abandoned as militarily indefensible.
in|de|fin|able / I nd I fa I nəb ə l/ ADJ An indefinable quality or feeling cannot easily be described. [WRITTEN ] □ There was something indefinable in her eyes.
in|defi|nite / I nde f I n I t/
1 ADJ [usu ADJ n] If you describe a situation or period as indefinite , you mean that people have not decided when it will end. □ The trial was adjourned for an indefinite period.
2 ADJ Something that is indefinite is not exact or clear. □ …at some indefinite time in the future.
in|de fi|nite a r|ti|cle (indefinite articles ) N‑COUNT The words 'a' and 'an' are sometimes called the indefinite article .
in|defi|nite|ly / I nde f I n I tli/ ADV [ADV with v] If a situation will continue indefinitely , it will continue for ever or until someone decides to change it or end it. □ The visit has now been postponed indefinitely.
in|de fi|nite pro |noun (indefinite pronouns ) N‑COUNT An indefinite pronoun is a pronoun such as 'someone', 'anything', or 'nobody', which you use to refer in a general way to a person or thing.
in|del|ible / I nde l I b ə l/ ADJ [usu ADJ n] If you say that something leaves an indelible impression, you mean that it is very unlikely to be forgotten. □ My visit to India in 1986 left an indelible impression on me. ● in|del|ibly ADV [ADV with v] □ The horrors he experienced are imprinted, perhaps indelibly, in his brain.
in|deli|cate / I nde l I kət/ ADJ If something or someone is indelicate , they are rude or embarrassing. [FORMAL ] □ She really could not touch upon such an indelicate subject.
in|dem|ni|fy / I nde mn I fa I / (indemnifies , indemnifying , indemnified ) VERB To indemnify someone against something bad happening means to promise to protect them, especially financially, if it happens. [FORMAL ] □ [V n + against ] They agreed to indemnify the taxpayers against any loss. □ [V n] It doesn't have the money to indemnify everybody.
in|dem|nity / I nde mn I ti/ (indemnities )
1 N‑UNCOUNT If something provides indemnity , it provides insurance or protection against damage or loss. [FORMAL ] □ [+ from ] Political exiles had not been given indemnity from prosecution.
2 N‑VAR An indemnity is an amount of money paid to someone because of some damage or loss they have suffered. [FORMAL ] □ [+ for ] The government paid the family an indemnity for the missing pictures.
in|dent / I nde nt/ (indents , indenting , indented ) VERB When you indent a line of writing, you start it further away from the edge of the paper than all the other lines. □ [V n] Indent the second line.
in|den|ta|tion / I ndente I ʃ ə n/ (indentations )
1 N‑COUNT An indentation is the space at the beginning of a line of writing when it starts further away from the edge of the paper than all the other lines.
2 N‑COUNT An indentation is a shallow hole or cut in the surface or edge of something. □ Using a knife, make slight indentations around the edges of the pastry.
in|dent|ed / I nde nt I d/ ADJ If something is indented , its edge or surface is uneven because parts of it have been worn away or cut away.
in|den|tured / I nde ntʃə r d/ ADJ [usu ADJ n] In the past, an indentured worker was one who was forced to work for someone for a period of time, because of an agreement made by people in authority.
in|de|pend|ence ◆◆◇ / I nd I pe ndəns/
1 N‑UNCOUNT If a country has or gains independence , it has its own government and is not ruled by any other country. □ [+ from ] In 1816, Argentina declared its independence from Spain.
2 N‑UNCOUNT [oft poss N ] Someone's independence is the fact that they do not rely on other people. □ He was afraid of losing his independence. SYNONYMS independence NOUN 1
freedom: Today we have the freedom to decide our own futures.
liberty: Such a system would be a fundamental blow to our rights and liberties.
autonomy: Activists stepped up their demands for local autonomy last month.
sovereignty: Britain's concern to protect national sovereignty is far from new.
I n|de|pe nd|ence Day N‑UNCOUNT A country's Independence Day is the day on which its people celebrate their independence from another country that ruled them in the past. In the United States, Independence Day is celebrated each year on 4th July. □ He died on Independence Day, 1831.
in|de|pend|ent ◆◆◆ / I nd I pe ndənt/ (independents )
1 ADJ If one thing or person is independent of another, they are separate and not connected, so the first one is not affected or influenced by the second. □ [+ of ] Your questions should be independent of each other. □ Two independent studies have been carried out. [Also + from ] ● in|de|pen|dent|ly ADV [usu ADV with v, oft ADV adj] □ …several people working independently in different areas of the world. □ [+ of ] The commission will operate independently of ministers. [Also + from ]
2 ADJ If someone is independent , they do not need help or money from anyone else. □ [+ of ] Phil was now much more independent of his parents. □ She would like to be financially independent. [Also + from ] ● in|de|pen|dent|ly ADV [ADV after v, ADV adj/-ed] □ We aim to help students with disabilities to live and study independently.
3 ADJ Independent countries and states are not ruled by other countries but have their own government. □ [+ from ] Papua New Guinea became independent from Australia in 1975. [Also + of ]
4 ADJ [ADJ n] An independent organization or other body is one that controls its own finances and operations, rather than being controlled by someone else. □ …an independent television station.
5 ADJ [usu ADJ n] An independent school does not receive money from the government or local council, but from the fees paid by its students' parents or from charities. [BRIT ] □ He taught chemistry at a leading independent school.
6 ADJ [ADJ n] An independent inquiry or opinion is one that involves people who are not connected with a particular situation, and should therefore be fair. □ The government ordered an independent inquiry into the affair.
7 ADJ [usu ADJ n] An independent politician is one who does not represent any political party. □ There's been a late surge of support for an independent candidate. ● N‑COUNT An independent is an independent politician.
in|de|scrib|able / I nd I skra I bəb ə l/ ADJ You use indescribable to emphasize that a quality or condition is very intense or extreme, and therefore cannot be properly described. [EMPHASIS ] □ …her indescribable joy when it was confirmed her son was alive. ● in|de|scrib|ably / I nd I skra I bəbli/ ADV [ADV adj] □ …indescribably filthy conditions.
in|de|struct|ible / I nd I strʌ kt I b ə l/ ADJ If something is indestructible , it is very strong and cannot be destroyed. □ This type of plastic is almost indestructible.
in|de|ter|mi|na|cy / I nd I tɜː r m I nəsi/ N‑UNCOUNT The indeterminacy of something is its quality of being uncertain or vague. [FORMAL ] □ [+ of ] …the indeterminacy of language.
in|de|ter|mi|nate / I nd I tɜː r m I nət/ ADJ [usu ADJ n] If something is indeterminate , you cannot say exactly what it is. □ I hope to carry on for an indeterminate period.
in|dex ◆◇◇ / I ndeks/ (indices , indexes , indexing , indexed ) The usual plural is indexes , but the form indices can be used for meaning 1 . 1 N‑COUNT An index is a system by which changes in the value of something and the rate at which it changes can be recorded, measured, or interpreted. □ …the U.K. retail price index. □ …economic indices.
2 N‑COUNT An index is an alphabetical list that is printed at the back of a book and tells you on which pages important topics are referred to. □ There's even a special subject index.
3 VERB If you index a book or a collection of information, you make an alphabetical list of the items in it. □ [be V -ed] This vast archive has been indexed and made accessible to researchers. □ [V n] She's indexed the book by author, by age, and by illustrator.
4 VERB [usu passive] If a quantity or value is indexed to another, a system is arranged so that it increases or decreases whenever the other one increases or decreases. □ [be V -ed + to ] Minimum pensions and wages are to be indexed to inflation.
5 → see also card index
i n|dex card (index cards ) N‑COUNT An index card is a small card on which you can write information. Index cards are kept in a box, arranged in order.
i n|dex fin|ger (index fingers ) N‑COUNT Your index finger is the finger that is next to your thumb.
i ndex-li nked ADJ Index-linked pensions or payments change as inflation or the cost of living changes. [mainly BRIT ]
In|dian / I ndiən/ (Indians )
1 ADJ [usu ADJ n] Indian means belonging or relating to India, or to its people or culture. □ …the Indian government.
2 N‑COUNT An Indian is an Indian citizen, or a person of Indian origin.
3 N‑COUNT Indians are the people who lived in North, South, or Central America before Europeans arrived, or people related to them. The usual name for them now is Native Americans . [OLD-FASHIONED ]
4 → see also Anglo-Indian
I n|dian su m|mer (Indian summers ) N‑COUNT You can refer to a period of unusually warm and sunny weather during the autumn as an Indian summer .
in|di|cate ◆◆◇ / I nd I ke I t/ (indicates , indicating , indicated )
1 VERB If one thing indicates another, the first thing shows that the second is true or exists. □ [V that] A survey of retired people has indicated that most are independent and enjoying life. □ [V n] Our vote today indicates a change in United States policy. □ [V wh] This indicates whether remedies are suitable for children.
2 VERB If you indicate an opinion, an intention, or a fact, you mention it in an indirect way. □ [V that] Mr Rivers has indicated that he may resign. □ [V n] U.S. authorities have not yet indicated their monetary policy plans.
3 VERB If you indicate something to someone, you show them where it is, especially by pointing to it. [FORMAL ] □ [V n] He indicated a chair. 'Sit down.'
4 VERB If one thing indicates something else, it is a sign of that thing. □ [V n] Dreams can help indicate your true feelings.
5 VERB If a technical instrument indicates something, it shows a measurement or reading. □ [V n] The needles that indicate your height are at the top right-hand corner. □ [V that] The temperature gauge indicated that it was boiling.
6 VERB When drivers indicate , they make lights flash on one side of their vehicle to show that they are going to turn in that direction. [mainly BRIT ] □ [V ] He told us when to indicate and when to change gear. [Also V n] in AM, use signal
in|di|ca|tion ◆◇◇ / I nd I ke I ʃ ə n/ (indications ) N‑VAR An indication is a sign which suggests, for example, what people are thinking or feeling. □ All the indications are that we are going to receive reasonable support from abroad. □ He gave no indication that he was ready to compromise. SYNONYMS indication NOUN
sign: His face and movements rarely betrayed a sign of nerves.
evidence: Ganley said he'd seen no evidence of widespread fraud.
signal: Leaders saw the visit as an important signal of support.
suggestion: There is absolutely no suggestion of any mainstream political party involvement.
in|dica|tive / I nd I kət I v/
1 ADJ [usu v-link ADJ ] If one thing is indicative of another, it suggests what the other thing is likely to be. [FORMAL ] □ [+ of ] The result was indicative of a strong retail market.
2 N‑SING In grammar, a clause that is in the indicative , or in the indicative mood , has a subject followed by a verb group. Examples are 'I'm hungry' and 'She was followed'. Clauses of this kind are typically used to make statements.
in|di|ca|tor / I nd I ke I tə r / (indicators )
1 N‑COUNT An indicator is a measurement or value which gives you an idea of what something is like. □ …vital economic indicators, such as inflation, growth and the trade gap.
2 N‑COUNT A car's indicators are the flashing lights that tell you when it is going to turn left or right. [mainly BRIT ] in AM, usually use turn signals
in|di|ces / I nd I siːz/ Indices is a plural form of index .
in|dict / I nda I t/ (indicts , indicting , indicted ) VERB [usu passive] If someone is indicted for a crime, they are officially charged with it. [mainly AM , LEGAL ] □ [be V -ed + on ] He was later indicted on corruption charges. □ [be V -ed + for ] She has been indicted for possessing cocaine.
in|dict|ment / I nda I tmənt/ (indictments )
1 N‑COUNT If you say that one thing is an indictment of another thing, you mean that it shows how bad the other thing is. □ [+ of ] It's a sad indictment of society that police officers are regarded as easy targets by thugs.
2 N‑VAR An indictment is a formal accusation that someone has committed a crime. [mainly AM , LEGAL ] □ [+ on ] Prosecutors may soon seek an indictment on racketeering and fraud charges. [Also + against ]
in|die / I ndi/ (indies )
1 ADJ [ADJ n] Indie music refers to rock or pop music produced by new bands working with small, independent record companies. [mainly BRIT ] □ …a multi-racial indie band. ● N‑COUNT An indie is an indie band or record company.
2 ADJ [ADJ n] Indie films are produced by small independent companies rather than by major studios. [mainly BRIT ] □ …the indie movie Happiness. ● N‑COUNT An indie is an indie film or film company.
in|dif|fer|ence / I nd I fərəns/ N‑UNCOUNT If you accuse someone of indifference to something, you mean that they have a complete lack of interest in it. □ [+ to ] …his callous indifference to the plight of his son.
in|dif|fer|ent / I nd I fərənt/
1 ADJ If you accuse someone of being indifferent to something, you mean that they have a complete lack of interest in it. □ [+ to ] People have become indifferent to the suffering of others. ● in|dif|fer|ent|ly ADV [ADV after v] □ 'Not that it matters,' said Tench indifferently.
2 ADJ If you describe something or someone as indifferent , you mean that their standard or quality is not very good, and often quite bad. □ She had starred in several very indifferent movies. ● in|dif|fer|ent|ly ADV [ADV with v] □ …an eight-year-old girl who reads tolerably and writes indifferently.
in|dig|enous / I nd I dʒ I nəs/ ADJ Indigenous people or things belong to the country in which they are found, rather than coming there or being brought there from another country. [FORMAL ] □ …the country's indigenous population.
in|di|gent / I nd I dʒənt/ ADJ Someone who is indigent is very poor. [FORMAL ]
in|di|gest|ible / I nd I dʒe st I b ə l/
1 ADJ Food that is indigestible cannot be digested easily. □ Fried food is very indigestible.
2 ADJ If you describe facts or ideas as indigestible , you mean that they are difficult to understand, complicated, and dull. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ …a dense, indigestible and wordy book.
in|di|ges|tion / I nd I dʒe stʃ ə n/ N‑UNCOUNT If you have indigestion , you have pains in your stomach and chest that are caused by difficulties in digesting food.
in|dig|nant / I nd I gnənt/ ADJ [ADJ that] If you are indignant , you are shocked and angry, because you think that something is unjust or unfair. □ [+ at/about ] He is indignant at suggestions that they were secret agents. ● in|dig|nant|ly ADV [ADV with v] □ 'That is not true,' Erica said indignantly.
in|dig|na|tion / I nd I gne I ʃ ə n/ N‑UNCOUNT Indignation is the feeling of shock and anger which you have when you think that something is unjust or unfair. □ [+ at ] She was filled with indignation at the conditions under which miners were forced to work.
in|dig|nity / I nd I gn I ti/ (indignities ) N‑VAR If you talk about the indignity of doing something, you mean that it makes you feel embarrassed or unimportant. [FORMAL ] □ [+ of ] Later, he suffered the indignity of having to flee angry protesters.
in|di|go / I nd I goʊ/ COLOUR Something that is indigo is dark purplish-blue in colour.
in|di|rect / I nda I re kt, -d I r-/
1 ADJ [usu ADJ n] An indirect result or effect is not caused immediately and obviously by a thing or person, but happens because of something else that they have done. □ Businesses are feeling the indirect effects from the recession that's going on elsewhere. ● in|di|rect|ly ADV [usu ADV adj, ADV with v] □ Drugs are indirectly responsible for the violence.
2 ADJ An indirect route or journey does not use the shortest or easiest way between two places. □ The goods went by a rather indirect route.
3 ADJ Indirect remarks and information suggest something or refer to it, without actually mentioning it or stating it clearly. □ His remarks amounted to an indirect appeal for economic aid. ● in|di|rect|ly ADV [ADV with v] □ He referred indirectly to the territorial dispute.
i n|di|rect di s|course N‑UNCOUNT Indirect discourse is the same as indirect speech . [AM ]
i n|di|rect o b|ject (indirect objects ) N‑COUNT An indirect object is an object which is used with a transitive verb to indicate who benefits from an action or gets something as a result. For example, in 'She gave him her address', 'him' is the indirect object. Compare direct object .
i n|di|rect que s|tion (indirect questions ) N‑COUNT An indirect question is the same as a reported question . [mainly BRIT ]
i n|di|rect spee ch N‑UNCOUNT Indirect speech is speech which tells you what someone said, but does not use the person's actual words: for example, 'They said you didn't like it', 'I asked him what his plans were', and 'Citizens complained about the smoke'. [mainly BRIT ] in AM, usually use indirect discourse
i n|di|rect ta x (indirect taxes ) N‑COUNT An indirect tax is a tax on goods and services which is added to their price. Compare direct tax .
i n|di|rect taxa |tion N‑UNCOUNT Indirect taxation is a system in which a government raises money by means of indirect taxes.
in|dis|ci|pline / I nd I s I pl I n/ N‑UNCOUNT If you refer to indiscipline in a group or team, you disapprove of the fact that they do not behave in a controlled way as they should. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ [+ among ] There is growing evidence of indiscipline among the troops.
in|dis|creet / I nd I skriː t/ ADJ If you describe someone as indiscreet , you mean that they do or say things in public which they should only do or say secretly or in private. □ [+ about ] He is notoriously indiscreet about his private life.
in|dis|cre|tion / I nd I skre ʃ ə n/ (indiscretions ) N‑VAR If you talk about someone's indiscretion , you mean that they have done or said something that is risky, careless, or likely to upset people. □ Occasionally they paid for their indiscretion with their lives.
in|dis|crimi|nate / I nd I skr I m I nət/ ADJ If you describe an action as indiscriminate , you are critical of it because it does not involve any careful thought or choice. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ The indiscriminate use of fertilisers is damaging to the environment. ● in|dis|crimi|nate|ly ADV [usu ADV with v, oft ADV adj] □ The men opened fire indiscriminately.
in|dis|pen|sable / I nd I spe nsəb ə l/ ADJ If you say that someone or something is indispensable , you mean that they are absolutely essential and other people or things cannot function without them. □ [+ to ] She was becoming indispensable to him.
in|dis|posed / I nd I spoʊ zd/ ADJ [usu v-link ADJ ] If you say that someone is indisposed , you mean that they are not available because they are ill, or for a reason that you do not want to reveal. [FORMAL ] □ The speaker was regrettably indisposed.
in|dis|put|able / I nd I spjuː təb ə l/ ADJ If you say that something is indisputable , you are emphasizing that it is true and cannot be shown to be untrue. [EMPHASIS ] □ It is indisputable that birds in the U.K. are harbouring this illness.
in|dis|tinct / I nd I st I ŋkt/ ADJ Something that is indistinct is unclear and difficult to see, hear, or recognize. □ The lettering is fuzzy and indistinct. ● in|dis|tinct|ly ADV [ADV after v] □ He speaks so indistinctly that many listeners haven't a clue what he is saying.
in|dis|tin|guish|able / I nd I st I ŋgw I ʃəb ə l/ ADJ [usu v-link ADJ ] If one thing is indistinguishable from another, the two things are so similar that it is difficult to know which is which. □ [+ from ] Replica weapons are indistinguishable from the real thing.
in|di|vid|ual ◆◆◇ / I nd I v I dʒu ə l/ (individuals )
1 ADJ [ADJ n] Individual means relating to one person or thing, rather than to a large group. □ They wait for the group to decide rather than making individual decisions. □ Aid to individual countries would be linked to progress towards democracy. ● in|di|vid|ual|ly ADV [usu ADV with v, ADV adj] □ …cheeses which come in individually wrapped segments.
2 N‑COUNT An individual is a person. □ …anonymous individuals who are doing good things within our community.
3 ADJ If you describe someone or something as individual , you mean that you admire them because they are very unusual and do not try to imitate other people or things. [APPROVAL ] □ It was really all part of her very individual personality. SYNONYMS individual ADJ 3
special: So you didn't notice anything special about him?
unique: Each person's signature is unique.
original: It is one of the most original works of imagination in the language.
distinctive: His voice was very distinctive.
in|di|vidu|al|ism / I nd I v I dʒʊl I zəm/
1 N‑UNCOUNT You use individualism to refer to the behaviour of someone who likes to think and do things in their own way, rather than imitating other people. □ He is struck by what he calls the individualism of American officers.
2 N‑UNCOUNT Individualism is the belief that economics and politics should not be controlled by the state. □ …the strong individualism in their political culture.
in|di|vidu|al|ist / I nd I v I dʒʊl I st/ (individualists )
1 N‑COUNT If you describe someone as an individualist , you mean that they like to think and do things in their own way, rather than imitating other people. □ Individualists say that you should be able to wear what you want.
2 ADJ [usu ADJ n] Individualist means relating to the belief that economics and politics should not be controlled by the state. □ …a party committed to individualist values. ● N‑COUNT An individualist is a person with individualist views. □ They share with earlier individualists a fear of collectivism.
in|di|vidu|al|is|tic / I nd I v I dʒʊl I st I k/ ADJ If you say that someone is individualistic , you mean that they like to think and do things in their own way, rather than imitating other people. You can also say that a society is individualistic if it encourages people to behave in this way. □ Most artists are very individualistic.
in|di|vidu|al|ity / I nd I v I dʒuæ l I ti/ N‑UNCOUNT The individuality of a person or thing consists of the qualities that make them different from other people or things. □ People should be free to express their individuality.
in|di|vidu|al|ize / I nd I v I dʒʊla I z/ (individualizes , individualizing , individualized ) in BRIT, also use individualise VERB To individualize a thing or person means to make them different from other things or people and to give them a recognizable identity. [FORMAL ] □ [V n] You can individualize a document by adding comments in the margins.
in|di|vis|ible / I nd I v I z I b ə l/ ADJ If you say that something is indivisible , you mean that it cannot be divided into different parts. □ Far from being separate, the mind and body form an indivisible whole.
PREFIX Indo-
combines with nationality adjectives to form adjectives which describe something as connected with both India and another country. For example, Indo-Pakistani talks take place between representatives from both India and Pakistan.
in|doc|tri|nate / I ndɒ ktr I ne I t/ (indoctrinates , indoctrinating , indoctrinated ) VERB If people are indoctrinated , they are taught a particular belief with the aim that they will reject other beliefs. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ [be V -ed] They have been completely indoctrinated. □ [V n] I wouldn't say that she was trying to indoctrinate us. ● in|doc|tri|na|tion / I ndɒ ktr I ne I ʃ ə n/ N‑UNCOUNT □ …political indoctrination classes.
in|do|lence / I ndələns/ N‑UNCOUNT Indolence means laziness. [FORMAL ]
in|do|lent / I ndələnt/ ADJ Someone who is indolent is lazy. [FORMAL ]
in|domi|table / I ndɒ m I təb ə l/ ADJ If you say that someone has an indomitable spirit, you admire them because they never give up or admit that they have been defeated. [FORMAL , APPROVAL ] □ …a woman of indomitable will.
In|do|nesian / I ndəniː ʒən/ (Indonesians )
1 ADJ Indonesian means belonging or relating to Indonesia, or to its people or culture.
2 N‑COUNT An Indonesian is an Indonesian citizen, or a person of Indonesian origin.
3 N‑UNCOUNT Indonesian is the national language of Indonesia.
in|door / I ndɔː r / ADJ [ADJ n] Indoor activities or things are ones that happen or are used inside a building and not outside. □ …an indoor market.
in|doors / I ndɔː r z/ ADV [be ADV , ADV after v] If something happens indoors , it happens inside a building. □ I think perhaps we should go indoors.
in|du|bi|table / I ndjuː b I təb ə l, [AM ] -duː b-/ ADJ You use indubitable to describe something when you want to emphasize that it is definite and cannot be doubted. [FORMAL , EMPHASIS ] □ His brilliance renders this film an indubitable classic. ● in|du|bi|tably ADV □ His behaviour was indubitably ill-judged.
in|duce / I ndjuː s, [AM ] -duː s-/ (induces , inducing , induced )
1 VERB To induce a state or condition means to cause it. □ [V n] Doctors said surgery could induce a heart attack. □ [V -ed] …an economic crisis induced by high oil prices.
2 VERB If you induce someone to do something, you persuade or influence them to do it. □ [be V -ed to-inf] More than 4,000 teachers were induced to take early retirement.
3 VERB If a doctor or nurse induces labour or birth, they cause a pregnant woman to start giving birth by using drugs or other medical means. [MEDICAL ] □ [V n] He might decide that it is best to induce labour.
-induced /- I ndjuːst, [AM ] -duːst/ COMB -induced combines with nouns to form adjectives which indicate that a state, condition, or illness is caused by a particular thing. □ …stress-induced disorders. □ …a drug-induced hallucination.
in|duce|ment / I ndjuː smənt, [AM ] -duː s-/ (inducements ) N‑COUNT [oft N to-inf] If someone is offered an inducement to do something, they are given or promised gifts or benefits in order to persuade them to do it. □ They offer every inducement to foreign businesses to invest in their states.
in|duct / I ndʌ kt/ (inducts , inducting , inducted ) VERB If someone is inducted into a particular job, rank, or position, they are given the job, rank, or position in a formal ceremony. [FORMAL ] □ [be V -ed + into ] Six new members have been inducted into the Provincial Cabinet. □ [V n + into ] She inducts Nina into the cult. [Also V n]
in|duc|tion / I ndʌ kʃ ə n/ (inductions )
1 N‑VAR [oft with poss] Induction is a procedure or ceremony for introducing someone to a new job, organization, or way of life. □ …an induction course for new members.
2 N‑UNCOUNT Induction is a method of reasoning in which you use individual ideas or facts to give you a general rule or conclusion. [FORMAL ]
3 → see also induce
in|duc|tive / I ndʌ kt I v/ ADJ Inductive reasoning is based on the process of induction.
in|dulge / I ndʌ ldʒ/ (indulges , indulging , indulged )
1 VERB If you indulge in something or if you indulge yourself , you allow yourself to have or do something that you know you will enjoy. □ [V + in ] We had enough time to indulge in a bit of window shopping. □ [V n] He returned to Britain so that he could indulge his passion for football. □ [V pron-refl] You can indulge yourself without spending a fortune. [Also V ]
2 VERB If you indulge someone, you let them have or do what they want, even if this is not good for them. □ [V n] He did not agree with indulging children.
in|dul|gence / I ndʌ ldʒ ə ns/ (indulgences ) N‑VAR Indulgence means treating someone with special kindness, often when it is not a good thing. □ [+ towards ] The king's indulgence towards his sons angered the business community.
in|dul|gent / I ndʌ ldʒ ə nt/ ADJ If you are indulgent , you treat a person with special kindness, often in a way that is not good for them. □ His indulgent mother was willing to let him do anything he wanted. ● in|dul|gent|ly ADV [usu ADV with v, oft ADV adj] □ Ned smiled at him indulgently.
in|dus|trial ◆◆◇ / I ndʌ striəl/
1 ADJ [usu ADJ n] You use industrial to describe things which relate to or are used in industry. □ …industrial machinery and equipment. □ …a link between industrial chemicals and cancer.
2 ADJ [usu ADJ n] An industrial city or country is one in which industry is important or highly developed. □ …ministers from leading western industrial countries.
in|du s|trial a c|tion N‑UNCOUNT If workers take industrial action , they join together and do something to show that they are unhappy with their pay or working conditions, for example refusing to work. [mainly BRIT ] □ Prison officers have decided to take industrial action.
in|du s|trial es|tate (industrial estates ) N‑COUNT An industrial estate is an area which has been specially planned for a lot of factories. [BRIT ] in AM, use industrial park
in|dus|tri|al|ise / I ndʌ striəla I z/ → see industrialize
in|dus|tri|al|ism / I ndʌ striəl I zəm/ N‑UNCOUNT Industrialism is the state of having an economy based on industry.
in|dus|tri|al|ist / I ndʌ striəl I st/ (industrialists ) N‑COUNT An industrialist is a powerful businessman who owns or controls large industrial companies or factories. □ …prominent Japanese industrialists.
in|dus|tri|al|ize / I ndʌ striəla I z/ (industrializes , industrializing , industrialized ) in BRIT, also use industrialise VERB When a country industrializes or is industrialized , it develops a lot of industries. □ [V ] Energy consumption rises as countries industrialise. □ [V n] Stalin's methods had industrialized the Russian economy. ● in|dus|tri|ali|za|tion / I ndʌ striəla I ze I ʃ ə n/ N‑UNCOUNT □ Industrialization began early in Spain.
in|dus|tri|al|ized ◆◇◇ / I ndʌ striəla I zd/ in BRIT, also use industrialised ADJ [ADJ n] An industrialized area or place is one which has a lot of industries. □ Industrialized countries must reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
in|du s|trial park (industrial parks ) N‑COUNT An industrial park is the same as an industrial estate . [AM ]
in|du s|trial re|la |tions N‑PLURAL Industrial relations refers to the relationship between employers and employees in industry, and the political decisions and laws that affect it. [BUSINESS ] □ The offer is seen as an attempt to improve industrial relations.
in|dus|tri|ous / I ndʌ striəs/ ADJ If you describe someone as industrious , you mean they work very hard. □ She was an industrious and willing worker. ● in|dus|tri|ous|ly ADV [ADV with v] □ Maggie paints industriously all through the summer.
in|dus|try ◆◆◆ / I ndəstri/ (industries )
1 N‑UNCOUNT Industry is the work and processes involved in collecting raw materials, and making them into products in factories. □ British industry suffers through insufficient investment in research.
2 N‑COUNT [oft n N ] A particular industry consists of all the people and activities involved in making a particular product or providing a particular service. □ …the motor vehicle and textile industries.
3 N‑COUNT [usu sing] If you refer to a social or political activity as an industry , you are criticizing it because you think it involves a lot of people in unnecessary or useless work. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ Some Afro-Caribbeans are rejecting the whole race relations industry.
4 N‑UNCOUNT Industry is the fact of working very hard. [FORMAL ] □ No one doubted his ability, his industry or his integrity.
5 → see also captain of industry , cottage industry , service industry SYNONYMS industry NOUN 1
business: …young people seeking a career in business.
manufacturing: …management headquarters for manufacturing.
trade: …negotiations on a new international trade agreement.
commerce: They have made their fortunes from industry and commerce.
production: That model won't go into production before late 2019.
ine|bri|at|ed / I niː brie I t I d/ ADJ Someone who is inebriated has drunk too much alcohol. [FORMAL ] □ Scott was obviously inebriated by the time the dessert was served.
in|ed|ible / I ne d I b ə l/ ADJ If you say that something is inedible , you mean you cannot eat it, for example because it tastes bad or is poisonous. □ Detainees complained of being given food which is inedible.
in|ef|fable / I ne fəb ə l/ ADJ [usu ADJ n] You use ineffable to say that something is so great or extreme that it cannot be described in words. [FORMAL ] □ …the ineffable sadness of many of the portraits. ● in|ef|fably / I ne fəbli/ ADV [usu ADV adj] □ …his ineffably powerful brain.
in|ef|fec|tive / I n I fe kt I v/ ADJ If you say that something is ineffective , you mean that it has no effect on a process or situation. □ Economic reform will continue to be painful and ineffective. ● in|ef|fec|tive|ness N‑UNCOUNT □ [+ of ] …the ineffectiveness of some of the police's anti-crime strategies.
in|ef|fec|tual / I n I fe ktʃuəl/ ADJ If someone or something is ineffectual , they fail to do what they are expected to do or are trying to do. □ The mayor had become ineffectual in the struggle to clamp down on drugs. ● in|ef|fec|tu|al|ly ADV □ Her voice trailed off ineffectually.
in|ef|fi|cient / I n I f I ʃ ə nt/ ADJ Inefficient people, organizations, systems, or machines do not use time, energy, or other resources in the best way. □ Their communication systems are inefficient in the extreme. ● in|ef|fi|cien|cy (inefficiencies ) N‑VAR □ [+ of ] …the inefficiency of the distribution system. ● in|ef|fi|cient|ly ADV [ADV with v] □ Energy prices have been kept low, so energy is used inefficiently.
in|el|egant / I ne l I gənt/ ADJ If you say that something is inelegant , you mean that it is not attractive or graceful. □ The grand piano has been replaced with a small, inelegant electric model.
in|eli|gible / I ne l I dʒəb ə l/ ADJ [usu v-link ADJ , ADJ to-inf] If you are ineligible for something, you are not qualified for it or entitled to it. [FORMAL ] □ They were ineligible to remain in the U.S.A.
in|eluc|table / I n I lʌ ktəb ə l/ ADJ [usu ADJ n] You use ineluctable to describe something that cannot be stopped, escaped, or ignored. [FORMAL ] □ …Malthus's theories about the ineluctable tendency of populations to exceed resources.
in|ept / I ne pt/ ADJ If you say that someone is inept , you are criticizing them because they do something with a complete lack of skill. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ He was inept and lacked the intelligence to govern.
in|epti|tude / I ne pt I tjuːd, [AM ] -tuːd/ N‑UNCOUNT If you refer to someone's ineptitude , you are criticizing them because they do something with a complete lack of skill. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ [+ of ] …the tactical ineptitude of the allied commander.
in|equal|ity / I n I kwɒ l I ti/ (inequalities ) N‑VAR Inequality is the difference in social status, wealth, or opportunity between people or groups. □ People are concerned about social inequality.
in|equi|table / I ne kw I təb ə l/ ADJ If you say that something is inequitable , you are criticizing it because it is unfair or unjust. [FORMAL , DISAPPROVAL ] □ The welfare system is grossly inequitable and inefficient.
in|equi|ty / I ne kw I ti/ (inequities ) N‑VAR If you refer to the inequity of something, you are criticizing it because it is unfair or unjust. [FORMAL , DISAPPROVAL ] □ [+ of ] Social imbalance worries him more than inequity of income.
in|eradi|cable / I n I ræ d I kəb ə l/ ADJ [usu ADJ n] You use ineradicable to emphasize that a quality, fact, or situation is permanent and cannot be changed. [FORMAL , EMPHASIS ] □ Divorce is a permanent, ineradicable fact of modern life.
in|ert / I nɜː r t/
1 ADJ Someone or something that is inert does not move at all. □ He covered the inert body with a blanket.
2 ADJ If you describe something as inert , you are criticizing it because it is not very lively or interesting. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ The novel itself remains oddly inert.
3 ADJ An inert substance is one which does not react with other substances. [TECHNICAL ] □ …inert gases like neon and argon.
in|er|tia / I nɜː r ʃə/
1 N‑UNCOUNT If you have a feeling of inertia , you feel very lazy and unwilling to move or be active. □ …her inertia, her lack of energy.
2 N‑UNCOUNT Inertia is the tendency of a physical object to remain still or to continue moving, unless a force is applied to it. [TECHNICAL ]
in|es|cap|able / I n I ske I pəb ə l/ ADJ If you describe a fact, situation, or activity as inescapable , you mean that it is difficult not to notice it or be affected by it. □ The economic logic of reform is inescapable. ● in|es|cap|ably / I n I ske I pəbli/ ADV □ It is inescapably clear that they won't turn round.
in|es|sen|tial / I n I se nʃ ə l/ ADJ If something is inessential , you do not need it. [FORMAL ] □ [+ to ] We have omitted footnotes which we judged inessential to the text.
in|es|ti|mable / I ne st I məb ə l/ ADJ [usu ADJ n] If you describe the value, benefit, or importance of something as inestimable , you mean that it is extremely great and cannot be calculated. [FORMAL ] □ Human life is of inestimable value.
in|evi|tabil|ity / I ne v I təb I l I ti/ (inevitabilities ) N‑VAR The inevitability of something is the fact that it is certain to happen and cannot be prevented or avoided. □ [+ of ] We are all bound by the inevitability of death.
in|evi|table ◆◇◇ / I ne v I təb ə l/ ADJ If something is inevitable , it is certain to happen and cannot be prevented or avoided. □ If the case succeeds, it is inevitable that other trials will follow. □ The defeat had inevitable consequences for British policy. ● N‑SING The inevitable is something which is inevitable. □ 'It's just delaying the inevitable,' he said. SYNONYMS inevitable ADJ
unavoidable: Managers said the job losses were unavoidable.
inescapable: The economic logic of reform is inescapable.
certain: Victory looked certain.
inexorable: …the seemingly inexorable rise in unemployment.
in|evi|tably / I ne v I təbli/ ADV [usu ADV with v, ADV adj] If something will inevitably happen, it is certain to happen and cannot be prevented or avoided. □ Technological changes will inevitably lead to unemployment.
in|ex|act / I n I gzæ kt/ ADJ Something that is inexact is not precise or accurate. □ Forecasting was an inexact science.
in|ex|cus|able / I n I kskjuː zəb ə l/ ADJ If you say that something is inexcusable , you are emphasizing that it cannot be justified or tolerated because it is extremely bad. [EMPHASIS ] □ He said the killing of innocent people was inexcusable. ● in|ex|cus|ably / I n I kskjuː zəbli/ ADV □ She had been inexcusably careless.
in|ex|haust|ible / I n I gzɔː stəb ə l/ ADJ If there is an inexhaustible supply of something, there is so much of it that it cannot all be used up. □ She has an inexhaustible supply of enthusiasm.
in|exo|rable / I ne ksərəb ə l/ ADJ [usu ADJ n] You use inexorable to describe a process which cannot be prevented from continuing or progressing. [FORMAL ] □ …the seemingly inexorable rise in unemployment. ● in|exo|rably / I ne ksərəbli/ ADV [ADV with v] □ Spending on health is growing inexorably.
in|ex|pen|sive / I n I kspe ns I v/ ADJ Something that is inexpensive does not cost very much. □ …a variety of good inexpensive restaurants.
in|ex|pe|ri|ence / I n I ksp I ə riəns/ N‑UNCOUNT If you refer to someone's inexperience , you mean that they have little knowledge or experience of a particular situation or activity. □ [+ of ] Critics attacked the youth and inexperience of his staff.
in|ex|pe|ri|enced / I n I ksp I ə riənst/ ADJ If you are inexperienced , you have little knowledge or experience of a particular situation or activity. □ Routine tasks are often delegated to inexperienced young doctors.
in|ex|pert / I ne kspɜː r t/ ADJ If you describe someone or something as inexpert , you mean that they show a lack of skill. □ He was too inexperienced and too inexpert to succeed. □ …inexpert needlework.
in|ex|pli|cable / I n I kspl I kəb ə l/ ADJ If something is inexplicable , you cannot explain why it happens or why it is true. □ For some inexplicable reason, the investors decided to pull out. ● in|ex|pli|cably / I n I kspl I kəbli/ ADV [usu ADV with v, oft ADV adj] □ She suddenly and inexplicably announced her retirement.
in|ex|press|ible / I n I kspre s I b ə l/ ADJ An inexpressible feeling cannot be expressed in words because it is so strong. [FORMAL ] □ He felt a sudden inexpressible loneliness.
in ex|tre|mis / I n I kstriː m I s/ PHRASE If someone or something is in extremis , they are in a very difficult situation and have to use extreme methods. [FORMAL ] □ The use of antibiotics is permitted only in extremis.
in|ex|tri|cable / I n I kstr I kəb ə l, I ne kstr I k-/ ADJ If there is an inextricable link between things, they cannot be considered separately. [FORMAL ] □ Meetings are an inextricable part of business.
in|ex|tri|cably / I nekstr I kəbli/ ADV [ADV with v] If two or more things are inextricably linked, they cannot be considered separately. [FORMAL ] □ Religion was for her inextricably linked with life itself.
in|fal|lible / I nfæ l I b ə l/ ADJ If a person or thing is infallible , they are never wrong. □ Although he was experienced, he was not infallible. ● in|fal|libil|ity / I nfæ l I b I l I ti/ N‑UNCOUNT □ [+ of ] …exaggerated views of the infallibility of science.
in|fa|mous / I nfəməs/ ADJ [usu ADJ n, v-link ADJ , Also v-link ADJ for n] Infamous people or things are well-known because of something bad. [FORMAL ] □ [+ for ] He was infamous for his anti-feminist attitudes.
in|fa|my / I nfəmi/ N‑UNCOUNT Infamy is the state of being infamous. [FORMAL ] □ …one of the greatest acts of infamy in history.
in|fan|cy / I nfənsi/
1 N‑UNCOUNT [usu poss N ] Infancy is the period of your life when you are a very young child. □ …the development of the mind from infancy onwards.
2 N‑UNCOUNT If something is in its infancy , it is new and has not developed very much. □ Computing science was still in its infancy.
in|fant / I nfənt/ (infants )
1 N‑COUNT [oft N n] An infant is a baby or very young child. [FORMAL ] □ …young mums with infants in prams. □ …the infant mortality rate in Britain.
2 N‑COUNT [usu pl] Infants are children between the ages of five and seven, who go to an infant school. [BRIT ] ● N‑UNCOUNT You use the infants to refer to a school or class for such children. □ You've been my best friend ever since we started in the infants.
3 ADJ [ADJ n] Infant means designed especially for very young children. □ …an infant carrier in the back of a car.
4 ADJ [ADJ n] An infant organization or system is new and has not developed very much. □ The infant company was based in Germany. WORD HISTORY infant
An infant is literally a child who is too young to have learnt to talk. The word comes from Latin infans , meaning 'unable to speak', from in- , meaning 'not', and fārī , meaning 'speak'.
in|fan|ti|cide / I nfæ nt I sa I d/ N‑UNCOUNT Infanticide is the crime of killing a young child.
in|fan|tile / I nfənta I l/
1 ADJ [ADJ n] Infantile behaviour or illnesses are typical of very young children. [FORMAL ] □ …infantile aggression.
2 ADJ If you accuse someone or something of being infantile , you think that they are foolish and childish. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ This kind of humour is infantile and boring.
in|fan|try / I nfəntri/ N‑UNCOUNT [with sing or pl verb] Infantry are soldiers who fight on foot rather than in tanks or on horses. □ …an infantry division.
in|fantry|man / I nfəntrimən/ (infantrymen ) N‑COUNT An infantryman is a soldier who fights on foot.
i n|fant school (infant schools ) N‑VAR In Britain, an infant school is a school for children between the ages of five and seven.
in|fatu|at|ed / I nfæ tʃue I t I d/ ADJ If you are infatuated with a person or thing, you have strong feelings of love or passion for them which make you unable to think clearly or sensibly about them. □ [+ with ] He was utterly infatuated with her.
in|fat|ua|tion / I nfæ tʃue I ʃ ə n/ (infatuations ) N‑VAR If you have an infatuation for a person or thing, you have strong feelings of love or passion for them which make you unable to think clearly or sensibly about them. □ [+ with ] …his infatuation with bullfighting.
in|fect ◆◇◇ / I nfe kt/ (infects , infecting , infected )
1 VERB To infect people, animals, or plants means to cause them to have a disease or illness. □ [V n] A single mosquito can infect a large number of people. □ [V -ed] …people infected with HIV. [Also V n + with ] ● in|fec|tion / I nfe kʃ ə n/ N‑UNCOUNT □ …plants that are resistant to infection.
2 VERB To infect a substance or area means to cause it to contain harmful germs or bacteria. □ [V n] The birds infect the milk. □ [V -ed] …a virus which is spread mainly by infected blood.
3 VERB When people, places, or things are infected by a feeling or influence, it spreads to them. □ [be V -ed + by ] For an instant I was infected by her fear. □ [V n + with ] He thought they might infect others with their bourgeois ideas. □ [V n] His urge for revenge would never infect her.
4 VERB If a virus infects a computer, it affects the computer by damaging or destroying programs. [COMPUTING ] □ [V n] This virus infected thousands of computers within days.
in|fect|ed / I nfe kt I d/ ADJ [ADJ n] An infected place is one where germs or bacteria are causing a disease to spread among people or animals. □ In heavily infected areas, half the population become blind.
in|fec|tion ◆◇◇ / I nfe kʃ ə n/ (infections )
1 N‑COUNT An infection is a disease caused by germs or bacteria. □ Ear infections are common in pre-school children.
2 → see also infect COLLOCATIONS infection NOUN
noun + infection : chest, ear, kidney, lung, throat
adjective + infection : bacterial, fungal, respiratory, viral; acute, life-threatening, recurrent, serious, severe
verb + infection : acquire, contract SYNONYMS infection NOUN
disease: …the rapid spread of disease in the area.
illness: She returned to her family home to recover from an illness.
ailment: The pharmacist can assist you with the treatment of common ailments.
complaint: Eczema is a skin complaint which often runs in families.
virus: There are many different strains of flu virus.
in|fec|tious / I nfe kʃəs/
1 ADJ A disease that is infectious can be caught by being near a person who has it. Compare contagious . □ …infectious diseases such as measles.
2 ADJ If a feeling is infectious , it spreads to other people. □ She radiates an infectious enthusiasm for everything she does.
in|fec|tive / I nfe kt I v/ ADJ [usu ADJ n] Infective means related to infection or likely to cause infection. [FORMAL ] □ …a mild and very common infective disease of children.
in|fer / I nfɜː r / (infers , inferring , inferred )
1 VERB If you infer that something is the case, you decide that it is true on the basis of information that you already have. □ [V that] I inferred from what she said that you have not been well. □ [V n] By measuring the motion of the galaxies in a cluster, astronomers can infer the cluster's mass.
2 VERB Some people use infer to mean 'imply', but many people consider this use to be incorrect. □ [V that] The police inferred that they found her behaviour rather suspicious.
in|fer|ence / I nfərəns/ (inferences )
1 N‑COUNT An inference is a conclusion that you draw about something by using information that you already have about it. □ There were two inferences to be drawn from her letter.
2 N‑UNCOUNT Inference is the act of drawing conclusions about something on the basis of information that you already have. □ It had an extremely tiny head and, by inference, a tiny brain.
in|fe|ri|or / I nf I ə riə r / (inferiors )
1 ADJ Something that is inferior is not as good as something else. □ Much of the imported coffee is of inferior quality. □ [+ to ] If children were made to feel inferior to other children their confidence declined.
2 ADJ If one person is regarded as inferior to another, they are regarded as less important because they have less status or ability. □ [+ to ] He preferred the company of those who were intellectually inferior to himself. ● N‑COUNT Inferior is also a noun. □ A gentleman should always be civil, even to his inferiors. ● in|fe|ri|or|ity / I nf I əriɒ r I ti, [AM ] -ɔː r-/ N‑UNCOUNT □ I found it difficult to shake off a sense of social inferiority.
i n|fe|ri|o r|ity com|plex (inferiority complexes ) N‑COUNT Someone who has an inferiority complex feels that they are of less worth or importance than other people.
in|fer|nal / I nfɜː r n ə l/
1 ADJ [ADJ n] Infernal is used to emphasize that something is very annoying or unpleasant. [OLD-FASHIONED , EMPHASIS ] □ The post office is shut, which is an infernal bore.
2 ADJ [ADJ n] Infernal is used to describe things that relate to hell. [LITERARY ] □ …the goddess of the infernal regions.
in|fer|no / I nfɜː r noʊ/ (infernos ) N‑COUNT [usu sing] If you refer to a fire as an inferno , you mean that it is burning fiercely and causing great destruction. [JOURNALISM ] □ Rescue workers fought to get to victims inside the inferno.
in|fer|tile / I nfɜː r ta I l, [AM ] -t ə l/
1 ADJ A person or animal that is infertile is unable to produce babies. □ According to one survey, one woman in eight is infertile. ● in|fer|til|ity / I nfɜː r t I l I ti/ N‑UNCOUNT □ Male infertility is becoming commonplace.
2 ADJ Infertile soil is of poor quality so that plants cannot grow in it. □ The polluted waste is often dumped, making the surrounding land infertile.
in|fest / I nfe st/ (infests , infesting , infested )
1 VERB When creatures such as insects or rats infest plants or a place, they are present in large numbers and cause damage. □ [V n] …pests like aphids which infest cereal crops. ● in|fest|ed ADJ □ [+ with ] The prison is infested with rats. ● -infested COMB □ …the rat-infested slums where the plague flourished. ● in|fes|ta|tion / I nfeste I ʃ ə n/ (infestations ) N‑VAR [oft n N ] □ The premises were treated for cockroach infestation. [Also + of ]
2 VERB If you say that people or things you disapprove of or regard as dangerous are infesting a place, you mean that there are large numbers of them in that place. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ [V n] Crime and drugs are infesting the inner cities. ● in|fest|ed ADJ □ [+ with ] The road further south was infested with bandits. ● -infested COMB □ …the shark-infested waters of the Great Barrier Reef.
in|fi|del / I nf I d ə l/ (infidels ) N‑COUNT If one person refers to another as an infidel , the first person is hostile towards the second person because that person has a different religion or has no religion. [LITERARY , DISAPPROVAL ] □ …a holy war, to drive the infidels and the non-believers out of this holy land. ● ADJ [ADJ n] Infidel is also an adjective. □ He promised to continue the fight against infidel forces.
in|fi|del|ity / I nf I de l I ti/ (infidelities ) N‑VAR Infidelity occurs when a person who is married or in a steady relationship has sex with another person. □ George ignored his partner's infidelities.
in|fighting / I nfa I t I ŋ/ also in-fighting N‑UNCOUNT Infighting is quarrelling and competition between members of the same group or organization. □ [+ between ] …in-fighting between right-wingers and moderates in the party.
in|fill / I nf I l/ (infills , infilling , infilled ) VERB To infill a hollow place or gap means to fill it. [mainly BRIT ] □ [be V -ed] The entrance to the cave was infilled by the landowner. □ [V ] It is wise to start infilling with a layer of gravel for drainage. [Also V n] in AM, use fill in
in|fil|trate / I nf I ltre I t/ (infiltrates , infiltrating , infiltrated )
1 VERB If people infiltrate a place or organization, or infiltrate into it, they enter it secretly in order to spy on it or influence it. □ [V n] Activists had infiltrated the student movement. □ [V + into ] A reporter tried to infiltrate into the prison. ● in|fil|tra|tion / I nf I ltre I ʃ ə n/ (infiltrations ) N‑VAR □ [+ by ] …an inquiry into alleged infiltration by the far left group.
2 VERB To infiltrate people into a place or organization means to get them into it secretly in order to spy on it or influence it. □ [V n + into ] Some countries have infiltrated their agents into the Republic.
in|fil|tra|tor / I nf I ltre I tə r / (infiltrators ) N‑COUNT An infiltrator is a person who has infiltrated a place or organization.
infin. infin. is an abbreviation for infinitive .
in|fi|nite / I nf I n I t/
1 ADJ If you describe something as infinite , you are emphasizing that it is extremely great in amount or degree. [EMPHASIS ] □ …an infinite variety of landscapes. □ The choice is infinite. ● in|fi|nite|ly ADV [ADV adj/adv] □ His design was infinitely better than anything I could have done.
2 ADJ Something that is infinite has no limit, end, or edge. □ Obviously, no company has infinite resources. ● in|fi|nite|ly ADV [ADV with v] □ A centimeter can be infinitely divided into smaller units.
in|fini|tesi|mal / I nf I n I te s I m ə l/ ADJ Something that is infinitesimal is extremely small. [FORMAL ] □ …mineral substances present in infinitesimal amounts in the soil.
in|fini|tive / I nf I n I t I v/ (infinitives ) N‑COUNT The infinitive of a verb is the basic form, for example 'do', 'be', 'take', and 'eat'. The infinitive is often used with 'to' in front of it.
in|fi|ni|tum / I nf I na I təm/ → see ad infinitum
in|fin|ity / I nf I n I ti/
1 N‑UNCOUNT Infinity is a number that is larger than any other number and can never be given an exact value. □ These permutations multiply towards infinity.
2 N‑UNCOUNT Infinity is a point that is further away than any other point and can never be reached. □ …the darkness of a starless night stretching to infinity.
in|firm / I nfɜː r m/ ADJ A person who is infirm is weak or ill, and usually old. [FORMAL ] □ …her aging, infirm husband. ● N‑PLURAL The infirm are people who are infirm. □ We are here to protect and assist the weak and infirm. ● in|fir|mity / I nfɜː r m I ti/ (infirmities ) N‑VAR □ In spite of his age and infirmity, he still writes plays and novels.
in|fir|ma|ry / I nfɜː r məri/ (infirmaries ) N‑COUNT Some hospitals are called infirmaries . □ Mrs Hardie had been taken to the infirmary in an ambulance.
in|flame / I nfle I m/ (inflames , inflaming , inflamed ) VERB If something inflames a situation or inflames people's feelings, it makes people feel even more strongly about something. [JOURNALISM ] □ [V n] The General holds the rebels responsible for inflaming the situation.
in|flamed / I nfle I md/ ADJ If part of your body is inflamed , it is red or swollen, usually as a result of an infection, injury, or illness. [FORMAL ] □ Symptoms include red, itchy and inflamed skin.
in|flam|mable / I nflæ məb ə l/ ADJ An inflammable material or chemical catches fire and burns easily. □ …a highly inflammable liquid.
in|flam|ma|tion / I nfləme I ʃ ə n/ (inflammations ) N‑VAR An inflammation is a painful redness or swelling of a part of your body that results from an infection, injury, or illness. [FORMAL ] □ [+ of ] The drug can cause inflammation of the liver.
in|flam|ma|tory / I nflæ mətri, [AM ] -tɔːri/
1 ADJ If you accuse someone of saying or doing inflammatory things, you mean that what they say or do is likely to make people react very angrily. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ …nationalist policies that are too drastic and inflammatory.
2 ADJ [ADJ n] An inflammatory condition or disease is one in which the patient suffers from inflammation. [FORMAL ] □ …the inflammatory reactions that occur in asthma.
in|flat|able / I nfle I təb ə l/ (inflatables )
1 ADJ [usu ADJ n] An inflatable object is one that you fill with air when you want to use it. □ The children were playing on the inflatable castle.
2 N‑COUNT An inflatable is an inflatable object, especially a small boat.
in|flate / I nfle I t/ (inflates , inflating , inflated )
1 VERB If you inflate something such as a balloon or tyre, or if it inflates , it becomes bigger as it is filled with air or a gas. □ [V n] Stuart jumped into the sea and inflated the liferaft. □ [V ] Don's lifejacket had failed to inflate.
2 VERB If you say that someone inflates the price of something, or that the price inflates , you mean that the price increases. □ [V n] The promotion of a big release can inflate a film's final cost. □ [V ] Clothing prices have not inflated as much as automobiles. ● in|flat|ed ADJ □ They had to buy everything at inflated prices at the ranch store.
3 VERB If someone inflates the amount or effect of something, they say it is bigger, better, or more important than it really is, usually so that they can profit from it. □ [V n] They inflated clients' medical treatment to defraud insurance companies.
in|fla|tion ◆◆◇ / I nfle I ʃ ə n/ N‑UNCOUNT Inflation is a general increase in the prices of goods and services in a country. [BUSINESS ] □ …rising unemployment and high inflation. □ …an inflation rate of only 2.2%. COLLOCATIONS inflation NOUN
noun + inflation : consumer price, food, house price, wage
adjective + inflation : rampant, rising; high, low
verb + inflation : stoke; control, curb, reduce; outstrip
in|fla|tion|ary / I nfle I ʃənri, [AM ] -neri/ ADJ [usu ADJ n] Inflationary means connected with inflation or causing inflation. [BUSINESS ] □ The bank is worried about mounting inflationary pressures.
in|flect / I nfle kt/ (inflects , inflecting , inflected ) VERB If a word inflects , its ending or form changes in order to show its grammatical function. If a language inflects , it has words in it that inflect. ● in|flect|ed ADJ □ …Sanskrit, a highly inflected language.
-inflected /- I nflekt I d/
1 COMB -inflected is used to form adjectives describing someone's voice or accent. [LITERARY ] □ 'I should like a word with you,' said the newcomer, in a pleasantly-inflected baritone.
2 COMB -inflected is used to form adjectives describing the style of a piece of music or a performance. [JOURNALISM ] □ …his attacking, gospel-inflected vocal style.
in|flec|tion / I nfle kʃ ə n/ (inflections )
1 N‑VAR An inflection in someone's voice is a change in its tone or pitch as they are speaking. [WRITTEN ] □ The man's voice was devoid of inflection.
2 N‑VAR In grammar, an inflection is a change in the form of a word that shows its grammatical function, for example a change that makes a noun plural or makes a verb into the past tense.
in|flex|ible / I nfle ks I b ə l/
1 ADJ Something that is inflexible cannot be altered in any way, even if the situation changes. □ Workers insisted the new system was too inflexible. ● in|flex|ibil|ity / I nfle ks I b I l I ti/ N‑UNCOUNT □ The snag about an endowment mortgage is its inflexibility.
2 ADJ If you say that someone is inflexible , you are criticizing them because they refuse to change their mind or alter their way of doing things. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ His opponents viewed him as stubborn, dogmatic, and inflexible. ● in|flex|ibil|ity N‑UNCOUNT [oft with poss] □ [+ of ] Joyce was irritated by the inflexibility of her colleagues.
in|flex|ion / I nfle kʃ ə n/ → see inflection
in|flict / I nfl I kt/ (inflicts , inflicting , inflicted ) VERB To inflict harm or damage on someone or something means to make them suffer it. □ [V n + on ] Rebels say they have inflicted heavy casualties on government forces. □ [V n] The dog then attacked her, inflicting serious injuries. ● in|flic|tion / I nfl I kʃ ə n/ N‑UNCOUNT □ [+ of ] …without the unnecessary or cruel infliction of pain.
i n-flight also inflight ADJ [ADJ n] In-flight services are ones that are provided on board an aeroplane. □ …an inflight magazine.
in|flow / I nfloʊ/ (inflows ) N‑COUNT If there is an inflow of money or people into a place, a large amount of money or people move into a place. □ [+ of ] The Swiss wanted to discourage an inflow of foreign money.
in|flu|ence ◆◆◇ / I nfluəns/ (influences , influencing , influenced )
1 N‑UNCOUNT Influence is the power to make other people agree with your opinions or do what you want. □ [+ over ] He denies exerting any political influence over them. □ The government should continue to use its influence for the release of all hostages.
2 VERB If you influence someone, you use your power to make them agree with you or do what you want. □ [V n] He is trying to improperly influence a witness. □ [V n to-inf] My dad influenced me to do electronics.
3 N‑COUNT To have an influence on people or situations means to affect what they do or what happens. □ [+ on ] Van Gogh had a major influence on the development of modern painting.
4 VERB If someone or something influences a person or situation, they have an effect on that person's behaviour or that situation. □ [V n] We became the best of friends and he influenced me deeply. □ [V wh] They still influence what's played on the radio.
5 N‑COUNT [usu sing, usu adj N ] Someone or something that is a good or bad influence on people has a good or bad effect on them. □ [+ on ] I thought Sue would be a good influence on you.
6 PHRASE If you are under the influence of someone or something, you are being affected or controlled by them. □ He was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol.
in|flu|en|tial / I nflue nʃ ə l/ ADJ Someone or something that is influential has a lot of influence over people or events. □ [+ in ] He had been influential in shaping economic policy. □ …one of the most influential books ever written.
in|flu|en|za / I nflue nzə/ N‑UNCOUNT Influenza is the same as flu . [FORMAL ]
in|flux / I nflʌks/ (influxes ) N‑COUNT [usu sing] An influx of people or things into a place is their arrival there in large numbers. □ [+ of ] …problems caused by the influx of refugees.
info / I nfoʊ/ N‑UNCOUNT Info is information. [INFORMAL ] □ For more info phone 414-3935.
info|bahn / I nfoʊbɑːn/ N‑SING The infobahn means the same as the information superhighway .
in|fo|mer|cial / I nfoʊmɜː r ʃ ə l/ (infomercials ) N‑COUNT An infomercial is a television programme in which a famous person gives information about a company's products or services, or a politician gives his or her opinions. The word is formed from 'information' and 'commercial'.
in|form ◆◇◇ / I nfɔː r m/ (informs , informing , informed )
1 VERB If you inform someone of something, you tell them about it. □ [V n + of ] They would inform him of any progress they had made. □ [V n that] My daughter informed me that she was pregnant. □ [V n with quote] 'I just added a little soy sauce,' he informs us. [Also V n]
2 VERB If someone informs on a person, they give information about the person to the police or another authority, which causes the person to be suspected or proved guilty of doing something bad. □ [V + on ] Thousands of American citizens have informed on these organized crime syndicates.
3 VERB If a situation or activity is informed by an idea or a quality, that idea or quality is very noticeable in it. [FORMAL ] □ [be V -ed + by ] All great songs are informed by a certain sadness and tension. □ [V n] The concept of the Rose continued to inform the poet's work.
in|for|mal / I nfɔː r m ə l/
1 ADJ [usu v-link ADJ ] Informal speech or behaviour is relaxed and friendly rather than serious, very correct, or official. □ She is refreshingly informal. ● in|for|mal|ly ADV [ADV after v] □ She was always there at half past eight, chatting informally to the children. ● in|for|mal|ity / I nfɔː r mæ l I ti/ N‑UNCOUNT □ He was overwhelmed by their friendly informality.
2 ADJ An informal situation is one which is relaxed and friendly and not very serious or official. □ The house has an informal atmosphere.
3 ADJ Informal clothes are casual and suitable for wearing when you are relaxing, but not on formal occasions. □ For lunch, dress is informal. ● in|for|mal|ly ADV □ Everyone dressed informally in shorts or jeans.
4 ADJ [usu ADJ n] You use informal to describe something that is done unofficially or casually without planning. □ The two leaders will retire to the country for informal discussions. ● in|for|mal|ly ADV □ He began informally to handle Ted's tax affairs for him.
in|form|ant / I nfɔː r mənt/ (informants )
1 N‑COUNT An informant is someone who gives another person a piece of information. [FORMAL ]
2 N‑COUNT An informant is the same as an informer .
in|for|ma|tion ◆◆◆ / I nfə r me I ʃ ə n/
1 N‑UNCOUNT Information about someone or something consists of facts about them. □ [+ about ] Pat refused to give her any information about Sarah. □ [+ on ] Each centre would provide information on technology and training. □ …an important piece of information.
2 N‑UNCOUNT Information consists of the facts and figures that are stored and used by a computer program. [COMPUTING ] □ Pictures are scanned into a form of digital information that computers can recognize.
3 N‑UNCOUNT Information is a service which you can call to find out someone's phone number. [AM ] in BRIT, use directory enquiries USAGE information
1
‘Information’ is an uncountable noun. Don’t talk about ‘
an information
' or ‘
informations
’. You can talk about a piece of information
. □
I wondered how to use this piece of information
.
2
Don’t use ‘tell’. Don’t say, for example, ‘
Pat did not tell her any information about Sarah
.’ You say that you give
people information, for example, say ‘Pat did not give
her any information
about Sarah’.
in|for|ma|tion|al / I nfə r me I ʃən ə l/ ADJ [ADJ n] Informational means relating to information. [JOURNALISM ] □ …the informational needs of school-age children.
in|for|ma |tion tech|no l|ogy N‑UNCOUNT Information technology is the theory and practice of using computers to store and analyse information. The abbreviation IT is often used. □ …the information technology industry.
in|forma|tive / I nfɔː r mət I v/ ADJ Something that is informative gives you useful information. □ The adverts are not very informative.
in|formed / I nfɔː r md/
1 ADJ Someone who is informed knows about a subject or what is happening in the world. □ Informed people know the company is shaky. □ …the importance of keeping the public properly informed.
2 → see also well-informed
3 ADJ [ADJ n] When journalists talk about informed sources, they mean people who are likely to give correct information because of their private or special knowledge. □ According to informed sources, those taken into custody include at least one major-general.
4 ADJ [ADJ n] An informed guess or decision is one that likely to be good, because it is based on definite knowledge or information. □ We are able to make more informed choices about how we use drugs.
5 → see also inform
in|form|er / I nfɔː r mə r / (informers ) N‑COUNT An informer is a person who tells the police that someone has done something illegal. □ …two men suspected of being police informers.
info|tain|ment / I nfoʊte I nmənt/ N‑UNCOUNT Infotainment is used to refer to radio or television programmes that are intended both to entertain people and to give information. The word is formed from 'information' and 'entertainment'.
infra|red / I nfrəre d/ also infra-red
1 ADJ [ADJ n] Infrared radiation is similar to light but has a longer wavelength, so we cannot see it without special equipment.
2 ADJ [ADJ n] Infrared equipment detects infrared radiation. □ …searching with infra-red scanners for weapons and artillery.
infra|struc|ture ◆◇◇ / I nfrəstrʌktʃə r / (infrastructures ) N‑VAR The infrastructure of a country, society, or organization consists of the basic facilities such as transport, communications, power supplies, and buildings, which enable it to function. □ …investment in infrastructure.
in|fre|quent / I nfriː kwənt/ ADJ If something is infrequent , it does not happen often. □ …John's infrequent visits to London. ● in|fre|quent|ly ADV [usu ADV with v] □ The bridge is used infrequently.
in|fringe / I nfr I ndʒ/ (infringes , infringing , infringed )
1 VERB If someone infringes a law or a rule, they break it or do something which disobeys it. □ [V n] The film exploited his image and infringed his copyright.
2 VERB If something infringes people's rights, it interferes with these rights and does not allow people the freedom they are entitled to. □ [V n] They rob us, they infringe our rights, they kill us. □ [V + on ] It's starting to infringe on our personal liberties.
in|fringe|ment / I nfr I ndʒmənt/ (infringements )
1 N‑VAR An infringement is an action or situation that interferes with your rights and the freedom you are entitled to. □ [+ of ] …infringement of privacy. □ [+ on ] They see it as an infringement on their own freedom of action.
2 N‑VAR An infringement of a law or rule is the act of breaking it or disobeying it. □ [+ of ] There might have been an infringement of the rules.
in|furi|ate / I nfjʊə rie I t/ (infuriates , infuriating , infuriated ) VERB If something or someone infuriates you, they make you extremely angry. □ [V n] Jimmy's presence had infuriated Hugh. □ [V n to-inf] It infuriates us to have to deal with this particular mayor. [Also V n that] ● in|furi|at|ed ADJ [usu v-link ADJ ] □ [+ with ] I was absolutely infuriated with him.
in|furi|at|ing / I nfjʊə rie I t I ŋ/ ADJ Something that is infuriating annoys you very much. □ I was in the middle of typing when Robert rang. It was infuriating! ● in|furi|at|ing|ly ADV [usu ADV adj, oft ADV with v] □ This book is infuriatingly repetitious.
in|fuse / I nfjuː z/ (infuses , infusing , infused ) VERB To infuse a quality into someone or something, or to infuse them with a quality, means to fill them with it. [FORMAL ] □ [be V -ed + with ] Many of the girls seemed to be infused with excitement on seeing the snow. □ [V n + into ] A union would infuse unnecessary conflict into the company's employee relations. [Also V n + with ]
in|fu|sion / I nfjuː ʒ ə n/ (infusions ) N‑VAR If there is an infusion of one thing into another, the first thing is added to the other thing and makes it stronger or better. [FORMAL ] □ [+ of ] He brought a tremendous infusion of hope to the people.
SUFFIX -ing
is added to verbs to make the -ing form, or present participle. Present participle forms are often used as adjectives describing a person or thing who is doing something. For example, a sleeping baby is a baby that is sleeping and an amusing joke is a joke that amuses people. Present participle forms are also used as nouns that refer to activities. For example, if you say you like dancing , you mean that you like to dance.
in|gen|ious / I ndʒiː niəs/ ADJ Something that is ingenious is very clever and involves new ideas, methods, or equipment. □ …a truly ingenious invention. ● in|gen|ious|ly ADV [usu ADV with v, oft ADV adj] □ The roof has been ingeniously designed to provide solar heating.
in|ge|nue /æ nʒe I njuː / (ingenues ) also ingénue N‑COUNT [usu sing] An ingenue is a young, innocent girl in a play or film, or an actress who plays the part of young, innocent girls. [FORMAL ] □ I don't want any more ingenue roles.
in|genu|ity / I ndʒənjuː I ti, [AM ] -nuː -/ N‑UNCOUNT Ingenuity is skill at working out how to achieve things or skill at inventing new things. □ Inspecting the nest may require some ingenuity.
in|genu|ous / I ndʒe njuəs/ ADJ If you describe someone as ingenuous , you mean that they are innocent, trusting, and honest. [FORMAL ] □ He seemed too ingenuous for a reporter. ● in|genu|ous|ly ADV [ADV with v, ADV adj] □ Somewhat ingenuously, he explains how the crime may be accomplished.
in|gest / I ndʒe st/ (ingests , ingesting , ingested ) VERB When animals or plants ingest a substance, they take it into themselves, for example by eating or absorbing it. [TECHNICAL ] □ [V n] …side effects occurring in fish that ingest this substance. ● in|ges|tion / I ndʒe stʃən/ N‑UNCOUNT □ [+ of ] Every ingestion of food can affect our mood or thinking processes.
in|glo|ri|ous / I nglɔː riəs/ ADJ [usu ADJ n] If you describe something as inglorious , you mean that it is something to be ashamed of. □ He wouldn't have accepted such an inglorious outcome. ● in|glo|ri|ous|ly ADV [ADV with v] □ If fighting worsens, the troops might be reinforced, or ingloriously withdrawn.
in|got / I ŋgət/ (ingots ) N‑COUNT [oft n N ] An ingot is a lump of metal, usually shaped like a brick. □ …gold ingots.
in|grained / I ngre I nd/ ADJ Ingrained habits and beliefs are difficult to change or remove. □ Morals tend to be deeply ingrained.
in|gra|ti|ate / I ngre I ʃie I t/ (ingratiates , ingratiating , ingratiated ) VERB If someone tries to ingratiate themselves with you, they do things to try and make you like them. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ [V pron-refl + with ] Many politicians are trying to ingratiate themselves with her. [Also V pron-refl]
in|gra|ti|at|ing / I ngre I ʃie I t I ŋ/ ADJ If you describe someone or their behaviour as ingratiating , you mean that they try to make people like them. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ He said this with an ingratiating smile.
in|grati|tude / I ngræ t I tjuːd, [AM ] -tuːd/ N‑UNCOUNT Ingratitude is lack of gratitude for something that has been done for you. □ [+ from ] The Government could expect only ingratitude from the electorate.
in|gre|di|ent ◆◇◇ / I ngriː diənt/ (ingredients )
1 N‑COUNT Ingredients are the things that are used to make something, especially all the different foods you use when you are cooking a particular dish. □ Mix in the remaining ingredients.
2 N‑COUNT An ingredient of a situation is one of the essential parts of it. □ [+ of ] The meeting had all the ingredients of high political drama. SYNONYMS ingredient NOUN 2
component: The management plan has four main components.
element: This was one of the key elements of the U.N.'s peace plan.
feature: Patriotic songs have long been a feature of Kuwaiti life.
aspect: He was interested in all aspects of the work here.
part: Respect is a very important part of any relationship.
in|grown / I ngroʊ n/ or ingrowing / I ngroʊ I ŋ/ ADJ An ingrown toenail, or in British English an ingrowing toenail, is one which is growing into your toe, often causing you pain.
in|hab|it / I nhæ b I t/ (inhabits , inhabiting , inhabited ) VERB If a place or region is inhabited by a group of people or a species of animal, those people or animals live there. □ [be V -ed] The valley is inhabited by the Dani tribe. □ [V n] …the people who inhabit these islands. □ [V -ed] …a land primarily inhabited by nomads.
in|hab|it|ant / I nhæ b I tənt/ (inhabitants ) N‑COUNT [usu pl] The inhabitants of a place are the people who live there. □ [+ of ] …the inhabitants of Glasgow.
in|ha|la|tion / I nhəle I ʃ ə n/ (inhalations )
1 N‑VAR Inhalation is the process or act of breathing in, taking air and sometimes other substances into your lungs. [FORMAL ] □ …a complete cycle of inhalation and exhalation. □ They were taken to hospital suffering from smoke inhalation. □ Take several deep inhalations.
2 N‑COUNT An inhalation is a treatment for colds and other illnesses in which you dissolve substances in hot water and breathe in the vapour. □ Inhalations can soothe and control the cough.
in|hale / I nhe I l/ (inhales , inhaling , inhaled ) VERB When you inhale , you breathe in. When you inhale something such as smoke, you take it into your lungs when you breathe in. □ [V ] He took a long slow breath, inhaling deeply. □ [V n] He was treated for the effects of inhaling smoke.
in|hal|er / I nhe I lə r / (inhalers ) N‑COUNT An inhaler is a small device that helps you to breathe more easily if you have asthma or a bad cold. You put it in your mouth and breathe in deeply, and it sends a small amount of a drug into your lungs.
in|her|ent / I nhe rənt, -h I ə r-/ ADJ [usu ADJ n] The inherent qualities of something are the necessary and natural parts of it. □ Stress is an inherent part of dieting. □ [+ in ] …the dangers inherent in an outbreak of war. ● in|her|ent|ly ADV [usu ADV adj] □ Aeroplanes are not inherently dangerous.
in|her|it / I nhe r I t/ (inherits , inheriting , inherited )
1 VERB If you inherit money or property, you receive it from someone who has died. □ [V n] He has no son to inherit his land. □ [V n + from ] …paintings that he inherited from his father. □ [V -ed] …people with inherited wealth.
2 VERB If you inherit something such as a task, problem, or attitude, you get it from the people who used to have it, for example because you have taken over their job or been influenced by them. □ [V n + from ] The government inherited an impossible situation from its predecessors.
3 VERB If you inherit a characteristic or quality, you are born with it, because your parents or ancestors also had it. □ [V n + from ] We inherit many of our physical characteristics from our parents. □ [V n] Her children have inherited her love of sport. □ [V -ed] Stammering is probably an inherited defect.
in|her|it|ance / I nhe r I t ə ns/ (inheritances )
1 N‑VAR An inheritance is money or property which you receive from someone who has died. □ She feared losing her inheritance to her stepmother.
2 N‑COUNT [usu sing, oft with poss] If you get something such as job, problem, or attitude from someone who used to have it, you can refer to this as an inheritance . □ …the situation that was Truman's inheritance as President.
3 N‑SING Your inheritance is the particular characteristics or qualities which your family or ancestors had and which you are born with. □ Eye colour shows your genetic inheritance.
in|he r|it|ance tax (inheritance taxes ) N‑COUNT An inheritance tax is a tax which has to be paid on the money and property of someone who has died.
in|heri|tor / I nhe r I tə r / (inheritors ) N‑COUNT [usu pl] The inheritors of something such as a tradition are the people who live or arrive after it has been established and are able to benefit from it. □ [+ of ] …the proud inheritors of the Prussian military tradition.
in|hib|it / I nh I b I t/ (inhibits , inhibiting , inhibited )
1 VERB If something inhibits an event or process, it prevents it or slows it down. □ [V n] The high cost of borrowing is inhibiting investment by industry in new equipment.
2 VERB To inhibit someone from doing something means to prevent them from doing it, although they want to do it or should be able to do it. □ [V n + from ] It could inhibit the poor from getting the medical care they need.
in|hib|it|ed / I nh I b I t I d/ ADJ If you say that someone is inhibited , you mean they find it difficult to behave naturally and show their feelings, and that you think this is a bad thing. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ [+ about ] We are rather inhibited about touching each other.
in|hi|bi|tion / I n I b I ʃ ə n/ (inhibitions ) N‑VAR Inhibitions are feelings of fear or embarrassment that make it difficult for you to behave naturally. □ The whole point about dancing is to stop thinking and lose all your inhibitions.
in|hos|pi|table / I nhɒsp I təb ə l/
1 ADJ [usu ADJ n] An inhospitable place is unpleasant to live in. □ …the Earth's most inhospitable regions.
2 ADJ If someone is inhospitable , they do not make people welcome when they visit.
i n-hou se ADJ In-house work or activities are done by employees of an organization or company, rather than by workers outside the organization or company. □ A lot of companies do in-house training. ● ADV In-house is also an adverb. □ The magazine is still produced in-house.
in|hu|man / I nhjuː mən/
1 ADJ [usu ADJ n] If you describe treatment or an action as inhuman , you mean that it is extremely cruel. □ The detainees are often held in cruel and inhuman conditions.
2 ADJ If you describe someone or something as inhuman , you mean that they are strange or bad because they do not seem human in some way. □ …inhuman shrieks that chilled my heart.
in|hu|mane / I nhjʊme I n/ ADJ If you describe something as inhumane , you mean that it is extremely cruel. □ He was kept under inhumane conditions.
in|hu|man|ity / I nhjʊmæ n I ti/ N‑UNCOUNT You can describe extremely cruel actions as inhumanity . □ [+ of ] …the inhumanity of war.
in|imi|cal / I n I m I k ə l/ ADJ [usu v-link ADJ ] Conditions that are inimical to something make it difficult for that thing to exist or do well. [FORMAL ] □ [+ to ] …goals inimical to Western interests.
in|imi|table / I n I m I təb ə l/ ADJ [usu ADJ n] You use inimitable to describe someone, especially a performer, when you like or admire them because of their special qualities. [FORMAL , APPROVAL ] □ He makes his own point in his own inimitable way.
in|iqui|tous / I n I kw I təs/ ADJ [usu ADJ n] If you describe something as iniquitous , you mean that it is very unfair or morally bad. [FORMAL ] □ …an iniquitous fine.
in|iquity / I n I kw I ti/ (iniquities ) N‑VAR You can refer to wicked actions or very unfair situations as iniquity . [FORMAL ] □ [+ of ] He rails against the iniquities of capitalism.
ini|tial ◆◇◇ / I n I ʃ ə l/ (initials , initialling , initialled ) in AM, use initialing , initialed 1 ADJ [ADJ n] You use initial to describe something that happens at the beginning of a process. □ The initial reaction has been excellent.
2 N‑COUNT [usu pl, oft poss N ] Initials are the capital letters which begin each word of a name. For example, if your full name is Michael Dennis Stocks, your initials will be M.D.S. □ …a silver Porsche car with her initials JB on the side.
3 VERB If someone initials an official document, they write their initials on it, for example to show that they have seen it or that they accept or agree with it. □ [V n] Would you mind initialing this voucher? SYNONYMS initial ADJ 1
opening: …the opening day of the fifth General Synod.
first: She lost 16 pounds in the first month of her diet.
early: …the early hours of Saturday morning.
introductory: …just out on the shelves at an introductory price of £2.99.
ini|tial|ly ◆◇◇ / I n I ʃəli/ ADV [ADV with v] Initially means soon after the beginning of a process or situation, rather than in the middle or at the end of it. □ Forecasters say the gales may not be as bad as they initially predicted. SYNONYMS initially ADV
at first: At first, he seemed surprised by my questions.
first: I met him first at his house where we had a chat.
originally: France originally refused to sign the treaty.
to begin with: It was great to begin with but now it's difficult.
ini|ti|ate / I n I ʃie I t/ (initiates , initiating , initiated )
1 VERB If you initiate something, you start it or cause it to happen. □ [V n] They wanted to initiate a discussion on economics.
2 VERB If you initiate someone into something, you introduce them to a particular skill or type of knowledge and teach them about it. □ [V n + into ] He initiated her into the study of other cultures. [Also V n]
3 VERB If someone is initiated into something such as a religion, secret society, or social group, they become a member of it by taking part in ceremonies at which they learn its special knowledge or customs. □ [be V -ed + into ] In many societies, young people are formally initiated into their adult roles. □ [V n + into ] …the ceremony that initiated members into the Order. [Also V n]
ini|tia|tion / I n I ʃie I ʃ ə n/ (initiations )
1 N‑UNCOUNT The initiation of something is the starting of it. □ [+ of ] They announced the initiation of a rural development programme.
2 N‑VAR [N n] Someone's initiation into a particular group is the act or process by which they officially become a member, often involving special ceremonies. □ [+ into ] This was my initiation into the peace movement.
ini|tia|tive ◆◇◇ / I n I ʃət I v/ (initiatives )
1 N‑COUNT [oft N to-inf] An initiative is an important act or statement that is intended to solve a problem. □ Government initiatives to help young people have been inadequate. □ There's talk of a new peace initiative.
2 N‑SING In a fight or contest, if you have the initiative , you are in a better position than your opponents to decide what to do next. □ We have the initiative; we intend to keep it.
3 N‑UNCOUNT If you have initiative , you have the ability to decide what to do next and to do it, without needing other people to tell you what to do. □ She was disappointed by his lack of initiative.
4 PHRASE If you take the initiative in a situation, you are the first person to act, and are therefore able to control the situation. □ We must take the initiative in the struggle to end the war.
ini|tia|tor / I n I ʃie I tə r / (initiators ) N‑COUNT The initiator of a plan or process is the person who was responsible for thinking of it or starting it. □ [+ of ] …one of the major initiators of the tumultuous changes in Eastern Europe.
in|ject / I ndʒe kt/ (injects , injecting , injected )
1 VERB To inject someone with a substance such as a medicine means to put it into their body using a device with a needle called a syringe. □ [be V -ed + with ] His son was injected with strong drugs. □ [V n + into ] The technique consists of injecting healthy cells into the weakened muscles. □ [V pron-refl] He needs to inject himself once a month. [Also V n, V n + with ]
2 VERB If you inject a new, exciting, or interesting quality into a situation, you add it. □ [V n + into ] She kept trying to inject a little fun into their relationship.
3 VERB If you inject money or resources into a business or organization, you provide more money or resources for it. [BUSINESS ] □ [V n + into ] He has injected £5.6 billion into the health service.
in|jec|tion / I ndʒe kʃ ə n/ (injections )
1 N‑COUNT If you have an injection , a doctor or nurse puts a medicine into your body using a device with a needle called a syringe. □ They gave me an injection to help me sleep.
2 N‑COUNT An injection of money or resources into an organization is the act of providing it with more money or resources, to help it become more efficient or profitable. [BUSINESS ] □ [+ of ] An injection of cash is needed to fund some of these projects.
in|ju|di|cious / I ndʒʊd I ʃəs/ ADJ If you describe a person or something that they have done as injudicious , you are critical of them because they have shown very poor judgment. [FORMAL , DISAPPROVAL ] □ He blamed injudicious comments by bankers for last week's devaluation.
in|junc|tion / I ndʒʌ ŋkʃ ə n/ (injunctions )
1 N‑COUNT An injunction is a court order, usually one telling someone not to do something. [LEGAL ] □ [+ against ] He took out a court injunction against the newspaper demanding the return of the document.
2 N‑COUNT [N to-inf] An injunction to do something is an order or strong request to do it. [FORMAL ] □ We hear endless injunctions to build a sense of community among staff.
in|jure / I ndʒə r / (injures , injuring , injured ) VERB If you injure a person or animal, you damage some part of their body. □ [V n] A number of bombs have exploded, seriously injuring at least five people. □ [V ] …stiff penalties for motorists who kill, maim, and injure.
in|jured ◆◇◇ / I ndʒə r d/
1 ADJ An injured person or animal has physical damage to part of their body, usually as a result of an accident or fighting. □ The other injured man had a superficial stomach wound. □ Many of them will have died because they were so badly injured. ● N‑PLURAL The injured are people who are injured. □ Army helicopters tried to evacuate the injured.
2 ADJ If you have injured feelings, you feel upset because you believe someone has been unfair or unkind to you. □ …a look of injured pride. SYNONYMS injured ADJ 1
hurt: His comrades asked him if he was hurt.
wounded: The two wounded men were taken to a nearby hospital.
i n|jured pa r|ty (injured parties ) N‑COUNT The injured party in a court case or dispute about unfair treatment is the person who says they were unfairly treated. [LEGAL ] □ The injured party got some compensation.
in|ju|ri|ous / I ndʒʊə riəs/ ADJ Something that is injurious to someone or to their health or reputation is harmful or damaging to them. [FORMAL ] □ [+ to ] …substances that are injurious to health.
in|ju|ry ◆◆◇ / I ndʒəri/ (injuries )
1 N‑VAR An injury is damage done to a person's or an animal's body. □ Four police officers sustained serious injuries in the explosion. □ The two other passengers escaped serious injury.
2 N‑VAR If someone suffers injury to their feelings, they are badly upset by something. If they suffer injury to their reputation, their reputation is seriously harmed. [LEGAL ] □ [+ to ] She was awarded £3,500 for injury to her feelings.
3 to add insult to injury → see insult SYNONYMS injury NOUN 1
wound: The wound is healing nicely.
bruise: How did you get that bruise on your cheek?
cut: …cuts and bruises.
gash: There was an inch-long gash just above his right eye.
i n|ju|ry time N‑UNCOUNT Injury time is the period of time added to the end of a football game because play was stopped during the match when players were injured. [mainly BRIT ]
in|jus|tice / I ndʒʌ st I s/ (injustices )
1 N‑VAR Injustice is a lack of fairness in a situation. □ They'll continue to fight injustice.
2 PHRASE If you say that someone has done you an injustice , you mean that they have been unfair in the way that they have judged you or treated you. □ The article does them both an injustice.
ink / I ŋk/ (inks ) N‑VAR Ink is the coloured liquid used for writing or printing. □ The letter was handwritten in black ink.
ink|ling / I ŋkl I ŋ/ (inklings ) N‑COUNT [usu sing, N that/wh] If you have an inkling of something, you have a vague idea about it. □ [+ of ] I had no inkling of his real purpose until much later.
ink|well / I ŋkwel/ (inkwells ) N‑COUNT An inkwell is a container for ink on a desk.
inky / I ŋki/
1 ADJ [usu ADJ n] Inky means black or very dark blue. [LITERARY ] □ The moon was rising in the inky sky. ● ADJ Inky is also a combining form. □ …looking out over an inky-blue ocean.
2 ADJ If something is inky , it is covered in ink. □ …inky fingers.
in|laid / I nle I d/ ADJ An object that is inlaid has a design on it which is made by putting materials such as wood, gold, or silver into the surface of the object. □ [+ with ] …a box delicately inlaid with little triangles.
in|land The adverb is pronounced / I nlæ nd/. The adjective is pronounced / I nlænd/. 1 ADV [be ADV , ADV after v] If something is situated inland , it is away from the coast, towards or near the middle of a country. If you go inland , you go away from the coast, towards the middle of a country. □ The vast majority live further inland. □ The car turned away from the coast and headed inland.
2 ADJ [ADJ n] Inland areas, lakes, and places are not on the coast, but in or near the middle of a country. □ …a rather quiet inland town.
I n|land Re v|enue N‑PROPER In Britain, the Inland Revenue was the government authority which collected income tax and some other taxes.
I n|land Re v|enue Ser|vice N‑PROPER In the United States, the Inland Revenue Service is the government authority which collects taxes. The abbreviation IRS is often used.
i n-laws N‑PLURAL [usu poss N ] Your in-laws are the parents and close relatives of your husband or wife.
in|lay / I nle I / (inlays ) N‑VAR An inlay is a design or pattern on an object which is made by putting materials such as wood, gold, or silver into the surface of the object. □ [+ of ] …an inlay of medieval glass.
in|let / I nlet/ (inlets ) N‑COUNT An inlet is a narrow strip of water which goes from a sea or lake into the land. □ …a sheltered inlet.
in|mate / I nme I t/ (inmates ) N‑COUNT The inmates of a prison or mental hospital are the prisoners or patients who are living there.
in|most / I nmoʊst/ ADJ [ADJ n] Inmost means the same as innermost . □ He knew in his inmost heart that he was behaving badly.
inn / I n/ (inns ) N‑COUNT An inn is a small hotel or pub, usually an old one. [OLD-FASHIONED ] □ …the Waterside Inn.
in|nards / I nə r dz/ N‑PLURAL [usu with poss] The innards of a person or animal are the organs inside their body. [INFORMAL ]
in|nate / I ne I t/ ADJ [usu ADJ n] An innate quality or ability is one which a person is born with. □ Americans have an innate sense of fairness. ● in|nate|ly ADV [ADV adj] □ I believe everyone is innately psychic.
in|ner ◆◇◇ / I nə r /
1 ADJ [ADJ n] The inner parts of something are the parts which are contained or are enclosed inside the other parts, and which are closest to the centre. □ Wade stepped inside and closed the inner door behind him.
2 ADJ [ADJ n] Your inner feelings are feelings which you have but do not show to other people. □ Loving relationships will give a child an inner sense of security.
i n|ner chi ld N‑SING [oft poss N ] Some psychologists refer to a person's childish feelings as his or her inner child . □ For me, recovery has been all about finding my inner child and accepting her.
i n|ner ci r|cle (inner circles ) N‑COUNT [usu sing] An inner circle is a small group of people within a larger group who have a lot of power, influence, or special information. □ [+ of ] …the Prime Minister's inner circle of advisers.
i n|ner ci ty (inner cities ) N‑COUNT You use inner city to refer to the areas in or near the centre of a large city where people live and where there are often social and economic problems. □ …helping kids deal with the fear of living in the inner city.
inner|most / I nə r moʊst/
1 ADJ [ADJ n] Your innermost thoughts and feelings are your most personal and secret ones. □ …revealing a company's innermost secrets.
2 ADJ [ADJ n] The innermost thing is the one that is nearest to the centre. □ …the innermost part of the eye.
i n|ner tube (inner tubes ) N‑COUNT An inner tube is a rubber tube containing air which is inside a car tyre or a bicycle tyre.
in|ning ◆◇◇ / I n I ŋ/ (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 / I n I ŋz/ (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.
innit / I n I t/ Innit can be used at the end of a statement to make it into a question. It is a way of saying 'isn't it'. [INFORMAL , SPOKEN ] □ The record's great, innit?
inn|keeper / I nkiːpə r / (innkeepers ) N‑COUNT An innkeeper is someone who owns or manages a small hotel or pub. [OLD-FASHIONED ]
in|no|cence / I nəsəns/
1 N‑UNCOUNT Innocence is the quality of having no experience or knowledge of the more complex or unpleasant aspects of life. □ [+ of ] …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.
in|no|cent ◆◇◇ / I nəsənt/ (innocents )
1 ADJ If someone is innocent , they did not commit a crime which they have been accused of. □ [+ of ] He was sure that the man was innocent of any crime. □ The police knew from day one that I was innocent.
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. ● N‑COUNT An innocent is someone who is innocent. □ Ian was a hopeless innocent where women were concerned. ● in|no|cent|ly 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. SYNONYMS innocent ADJ 2
naïve: It's naïve to think that teachers are always tolerant.
trusting: Perhaps I was too trusting.
gullible: I'm so gullible I would have believed him.
unworldly: She was so young, so unworldly.
in|no|cent|ly / I nəsəntli/
1 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.
2 → see also innocent
in|nocu|ous / I nɒ kjuəs/ ADJ Something that is innocuous is not at all harmful or offensive. [FORMAL ] □ Both mushrooms look innocuous but are in fact deadly.
in|no|vate / I nəve I t/ (innovates , innovating , innovated ) VERB To innovate means to introduce changes and new ideas in the way something is done or made. □ [V ] …his constant desire to innovate and experiment.
in|no|va|tion / I nəve I ʃ 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 / I nəve I t I v/
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 / I nəve I tə 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 / I nəve I təri, [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 / I njue ndoʊ/ (innuendoes or 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 / I njuː mərəb ə l, [AM ] -nuː -/ ADJ [usu ADJ n] Innumerable means very many, or too many to be counted. [FORMAL ] □ He has invented innumerable excuses, told endless lies.
in|ocu|late / I nɒ kjʊle I t/ (inoculates , inoculating , inoculated ) VERB 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. □ [V n] …a program to inoculate every child in the state. □ [be V -ed + against ] His dogs were inoculated against rabies. ● in|ocu|la|tion / I nɒ kjʊle I ʃ ə n/ (inoculations ) N‑VAR □ [+ of ] This may eventually lead to routine inoculation of children. [Also + against ]
in|of|fen|sive / I nəfe ns I v/ 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.
in|op|er|able / I nɒ pərəb 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 / I nɒ pərət I v/ 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 / I nɒ pə r tjuːn, [AM ] -tuː n/ 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 / I nɔː r d I n I t/ 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 , EMPHASIS ] □ They spend an inordinate amount of time talking. ● in|or|di|nate|ly ADV [usu ADV adj/-ed] □ He is inordinately proud of his wife's achievements.
in|or|gan|ic / I nɔː r gæ n I k/ 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.
i n-patient (in-patients ) also inpatient N‑COUNT An in-patient is someone who stays in hospital while they receive their treatment. ● ADJ [ADJ n] In-patient is also an adjective. □ …inpatient hospital care.
in|put / I npʊt/ (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 ]
3 VERB If you input information into a computer, you feed it in, for example by typing it on a keyboard. [COMPUTING ] □ [be V -ed + onto ] All this information had to be input onto the computer.
i n|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 ]
i nput/ou tput
1 N‑UNCOUNT Input/output refers to the information that is passed into or out of a computer. [COMPUTING ]
2 N‑UNCOUNT Input/output refers to the hardware or software that controls the passing of information into or out of a computer. [COMPUTING ] □ … an input/output system.
in|quest / I nkwest/ (inquests )
1 N‑COUNT When an inquest is held, a public official hears evidence about someone's death in order to find out the cause. □ [+ into ] The inquest into their deaths opened yesterday in Enniskillen.
2 N‑COUNT [usu sing] You can refer to an investigation by the people involved into the causes of a defeat or failure as an inquest . □ [+ into ] His plea came last night as party chiefs held an inquest into the election disaster.
in|quire / I nkwa I ə r / (inquires , inquiring , inquired ) also enquire
1 VERB If you inquire about something, you ask for information about it. [FORMAL ] □ [V with quote] 'Is something wrong?' he enquired. □ [V + of ] 'Who are you?' he enquired of the first man. □ [V + about ] I rang up to inquire about train times. □ [V wh] He inquired whether there had been any messages for him. □ [V n, V ] He was so impressed that he inquired the young shepherd's name. [Also V + for ]
2 VERB If you inquire into something, you investigate it carefully. □ [V + into ] Inspectors were appointed to inquire into the affairs of the company.
▸ inquire after PHRASAL VERB If you inquire after someone, you ask how they are or what they are doing. [FORMAL ] □ [V P n] Elsie called to inquire after my health.
in|quir|er / I nkwa I ə rə 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‑COUNT Inquirer is used in the names of some newspapers and magazines. □ …the National Enquirer.
in|quir|ing / I nkwa I ə r I ŋ/ 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. ● in|quir|ing|ly ADV □ She looked at me inquiringly. 'Well?'
in|quiry ◆◇◇ / I nkwa I ə ri/ (inquiries ) The spelling enquiry is also used. Inquiry is sometimes pronounced / I ŋkw I ri/ 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. □ [+ into ] 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 COLLOCATIONS inquiry NOUN 2
noun + inquiry : competition, corruption; police; murder
adjective + inquiry : independent, internal, official, public; judicial, parliamentary
inquiry + be + adjective : underway
verb + inquiry : launch, order, set up; carry out, chair, conduct, hold SYNONYMS inquiry NOUN 1
question: The President refused to answer further questions on the subject.
query: If you have any queries, please contact Travel Insurance Services Limited.
investigation: He ordered an investigation into the affair.
in|qui|si|tion / I nkw I z I ʃ 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 / I nkw I z I t I v/ ADJ An inquisitive person likes finding out about things, especially secret things. □ Barrow had an inquisitive nature. ● in|quisi|tive|ly ADV [ADV after v] □ Molly looked at Ann inquisitively. 'Where do you want to go?' ● in|quisi|tive|ness N‑UNCOUNT □ I liked children, loved their innocence and their inquisitiveness.
in|quisi|tor / I nkw I z I tə 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 / I nkw I z I tɔː ri ə l/ ADJ If you describe something or someone as inquisitorial , you mean they resemble things or people in an inquisition. □ An inquest is an inquisitorial and not an adversarial process.
in|roads / I nroʊdz/ PHRASE If one thing makes inroads into another, the first thing starts affecting or destroying the second. □ [+ into ] In Italy, as elsewhere, television has made deep inroads into cinema.
in|sane / I nse I n/
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.
2 ADJ If you describe a decision or action as insane , you think it is very foolish or excessive. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ I said, 'Listen, this is completely insane.' ● in|sane|ly ADV [usu ADV adj, oft ADV with v] □ I would be insanely jealous if Bill left me for another woman.
in|sani|tary / I nsæ n I tri, [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.
in|san|ity / I nsæ n I ti/
1 N‑UNCOUNT Insanity is the state of being insane. □ The defence pleaded insanity, but the defendant was found guilty and sentenced.
2 N‑UNCOUNT If you describe a decision or an action as insanity , you think it is very foolish. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ …the final financial insanity of the 1980s.
in|sa|tiable / I nse I ʃəb 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.
in|scribe / I nskra I b/ (inscribes , inscribing , inscribed )
1 VERB If you inscribe words on an object, you write or carve the words on the object. □ [V n + on ] Some galleries commemorate donors by inscribing their names on the walls. □ [V -ed + with ] …stone slabs inscribed with Buddhist texts.
2 VERB If you inscribe something in the front of a book or on a photograph, you write it there, often before giving it to someone. □ [V n] On the back I had inscribed the words: 'Here's to Great Ideas! John'. □ [V -ed quote] The book is inscribed: To John Arlott from Laurie Lee.
in|scrip|tion / I nskr I pʃ 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 / I nskruː təb 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 / I nsekt/ (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.
in|sec|ti|cide / I nse kt I sa I d/ (insecticides ) N‑VAR Insecticide is a chemical substance that is used to kill insects. □ Spray the plants with insecticide.
in|secure / I ns I kjʊə 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. □ [+ about ] Most mothers are insecure about their performance as mothers. ● in|secu|rity / I ns I kjʊə r I ti/ (insecurities ) 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. ● in|secu|rity N‑UNCOUNT □ Crime creates feelings of insecurity in the population.
in|semi|nate / I nse m I ne I t/ (inseminates , inseminating , inseminated )
1 VERB To inseminate a woman or female animal means to put a male's sperm into her in order to make her pregnant. □ [V n] The gadget is used to artificially inseminate cows. ● in|semi|na|tion / I nse m I ne I ʃ ə n/ N‑UNCOUNT □ The sperm sample is checked under the microscope before insemination is carried out.
2 → see also artificial insemination
in|sen|si|tive / I nse ns I t I v/
1 ADJ If you describe someone as insensitive , you are criticizing them for being unaware of or unsympathetic to other people's feelings. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ [+ about ] I felt he was being insensitive about the enormity of what we had done. ● in|sen|si|tiv|ity / I nse ns I t I v I ti/ N‑UNCOUNT □ [+ towards ] I was ashamed at my insensitivity towards her.
2 ADJ Someone who is insensitive to a situation or to a need does not think or care about it. □ [+ to ] …women's and Latino organizations that say he is insensitive to civil rights. ● in|sen|si|tiv|ity N‑UNCOUNT □ [+ to ] …insensitivity to the environmental consequences.
3 ADJ Someone who is insensitive to a physical sensation is unable to feel it. □ [+ to ] He had become insensitive to cold.
in|sepa|rable / I nse prəb ə l/
1 ADJ If one thing is inseparable from another, the things are so closely connected that they cannot be considered separately. □ [+ from ] He firmly believes liberty is inseparable from social justice. ● in|sepa|rably ADV [usu ADV -ed, oft 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. [EMPHASIS ] □ She and Kristin were inseparable.
in|sert (inserts , inserting , inserted ) The verb is pronounced / I nsɜː r t/. The noun is pronounced / I nsɜː r t/. 1 VERB If you insert an object into something, you put the object inside it. □ [V n + into ] He took a small key from his pocket and slowly inserted it into the lock. □ [V n] Wait for a couple of minutes with your mouth closed before inserting the thermometer. ● in|ser|tion / I nsɜː r ʃ ə n/ (insertions ) N‑VAR □ [+ of ] …the first experiment involving the insertion of a new gene into a human being.
2 VERB If you insert a comment into a piece of writing or a speech, you include it. □ [V n] They joined with the monarchists to insert a clause calling for a popular vote on the issue. [Also V n into/in n] ● in|ser|tion N‑VAR □ [+ in ] 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.
i n-se rvice ADJ [ADJ n] If people working in a particular profession are given in-service training, they attend special courses to improve their skills or to learn about new developments in their field. □ …in-service courses for teachers.
in|set / I nset/ (insets )
1 ADJ [usu v-link ADJ ] Something that is inset with a decoration or piece of material has the decoration or material set inside it. □ [+ with ] …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 / I nʃɔː r /. The adjective is pronounced / I nʃɔː 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. ● ADJ [ADJ n] Inshore is also an adjective. □ …inshore reefs and islands.
in|side ◆◆◇ / I nsa I d/ (insides ) The preposition is usually pronounced / I nsa I d/. 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 phone inside the entrance hall. ● ADV [ADV after v, be ADV , from ADV , n ADV ] Inside is also an adverb. □ The couple chatted briefly on the doorstep before going inside. □ Inside, a few workers went about their work. ● ADJ [ADJ n] Inside is also an adjective. □ …four-berth inside cabins with en-suite bathroom and shower.
2 N‑COUNT The inside of something is the part or area that its sides surround or contain. □ The doors were locked from the inside. □ [+ of ] I painted the inside of the house. ● ADJ [ADJ n] Inside is also an adjective. □ The popular papers all have photo features on their inside pages. ● ADV [adj ADV ] Inside is also an adverb. □ The potato cakes should be crisp outside and meltingly soft inside.
3 ADV [be ADV , ADV after v] You can say that someone is inside when they are in prison. [INFORMAL ] □ He's been inside three times.
4 ADJ [ADJ n] On a wide road, the inside lane is the one which is closest to the edge of the road. Compare outside . [BRIT ] □ I was driving up at seventy miles an hour on the inside lane on the motorway. ● N‑SING [oft on the N ] Inside is also a noun. □ I overtook Charlie on the inside. [in AM, use slow lane ]
5 ADJ [ADJ n] Inside information is obtained from someone who is involved in a situation and therefore knows a lot about it. □ Sloane used inside diplomatic information to make himself rich.
6 PREP If you are inside an organization, you belong to it. □ 75 percent of chief executives come from inside the company. ● ADJ [ADJ n] Inside is also an adjective. □ …a recent book about the inside world of pro football. ● N‑SING Inside is also a noun. □ McAvoy was convinced he could control things from the inside but he lost control.
7 N‑PLURAL [usu poss N ] Your insides are your internal organs, especially your stomach. [INFORMAL ]
8 ADV [ADV after v, n ADV ] If you say that someone has a feeling inside , you mean that they have it but have not expressed it. □ There is nothing left inside–no words, no anger, no tears. ● PREP Inside is also a preposition. □ He felt a great weight of sorrow inside him. ● N‑SING Inside is also a noun. □ What is needed is a change from the inside, a real change in outlook and attitude.
9 PREP If you do something inside a particular time, you do it before the end of that time. □ They should have everything working inside an hour.
10 PHRASE If something such as a piece of clothing is inside out , the part that is normally inside now faces outwards. □ Her umbrella blew inside out.
11 PHRASE If you say that you know something or someone inside out , you are emphasizing that you know them extremely well. [EMPHASIS ] □ He knew the game inside out.
in|sid|er / I nsa I də 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 tra d|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 / I ns I diəs/ 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. ● in|sidi|ous|ly ADV [usu ADV adj] □ Delusions are sometimes insidiously destructive.
in|sight / I nsa I t/ (insights )
1 N‑VAR If you gain insight or an insight into a complex situation or problem, you gain an accurate and deep understanding of it. □ [+ into ] 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 / I nsa I tfʊl/ ADJ If you describe a person or their remarks as insightful , you mean that they show a very good understanding of people and situations. [APPROVAL ] □ She offered some really interesting, insightful observations.
in|sig|nia / I ns I gniə/ (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. □ [+ of ] The red star was the national insignia of the USSR.
in|sig|nifi|cance / I ns I gn I f I kəns/ N‑UNCOUNT Insignificance is the quality of being insignificant. □ The cost pales into insignificance when compared with the damage done to his reputation.
in|sig|nifi|cant / I ns I gn I f I kənt/ ADJ Something that is insignificant is unimportant, especially because it is very small. □ In 1949 Bonn was a small, insignificant city.
in|sin|cere / I ns I ns I ə 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. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ Some people are so terribly insincere you can never tell if they are telling the truth. ● in|sin|cer|ity / I ns I nse r I ti/ N‑UNCOUNT □ Too many superlatives lend a note of insincerity.
in|sinu|ate / I ns I njue I t/ (insinuates , insinuating , insinuated )
1 VERB If you say that someone insinuates that something bad is the case, you mean that they say it in an indirect way. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ [V that] The libel claim followed an article which insinuated that the President was lying. [Also V n] ● in|sin|ua|tion / I ns I njue I ʃ ə n/ (insinuations ) N‑VAR □ He speaks with rage of insinuations that there's a 'gay mafia' in Hollywood.
2 VERB 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. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ [V pron-refl + into ] He gradually insinuated himself into her life. [Also V n prep]
in|sinu|at|ing / I ns I njue I t I ŋ/ 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. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ Marcus kept making insinuating remarks.
in|sip|id / I ns I p I d/
1 ADJ If you describe food or drink as insipid , you dislike it because it has very little taste. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ It tasted indescribably bland and insipid, like warmed cardboard.
2 ADJ If you describe someone or something as insipid , you mean they are dull and boring. [DISAPPROVAL ] □ On the surface she seemed meek, rather insipid.
in|sist ◆◆◇ / I ns I st/ (insists , insisting , insisted )
1 VERB 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. □ [V that] My family insisted that I should not give in, but stay and fight. □ [V + on ] She insisted on being present at all the interviews. □ [V ] I didn't want to join in, but Kenneth insisted.
2 VERB 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. □ [V that] The president insisted that he was acting out of compassion, not opportunism. □ [V with quote] 'It's not that difficult,' she insists. □ [V + on ] Crippen insisted on his innocence.
in|sist|ence / I ns I stəns/ N‑UNCOUNT [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. [Also + on ]
in|sist|ent / I ns I stənt/
1 ADJ [oft ADJ that] 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. [Also + on ] ● in|sist|ent|ly 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.
in situ / I n s I tjuː, [AM ] - s I tuː/ ADV [ADV after v] If something remains in situ , especially while something is done to it, it remains where it is. [FORMAL ] □ Major works of painting, sculpture, mosaic and architecture were examined in situ in Venice. ● ADJ [ADJ n] In situ is also an adjective. □ …technical data derived from laboratory and in-situ experimentation.
in|so|far as / I nsəfɑː r əz/ 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.
in|sole / I nsoʊl/ (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 / I nsələnt/ 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. ● in|so|lence N‑UNCOUNT □ Pupils could be excluded from school for insolence.
in|sol|uble / I nsɒ ljʊb 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.
in|sol|ven|cy / I nsɒ lv 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 / I nsɒ lv 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 / I nsɒ mniə/ N‑UNCOUNT Someone who suffers from insomnia finds it difficult to sleep.
in|som|ni|ac / I nsɒ mniæk/ (insomniacs ) N‑COUNT An insomniac is a person who finds it difficult to sleep.
in|sou|ci|ance / I nsuː siəns/ 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?'
in|sou|ci|ant / I nsuː siənt/ ADJ An insouciant action or quality shows someone's lack of concern about something which they might be expected to take more seriously. [FORMAL ] □ [+ about ] Programme-makers seem irresponsibly insouciant about churning out violence.
Insp. N‑TITLE Insp. is the written abbreviation for inspector when it is used as a title. □ …Insp. John Downs.
in|spect ◆◇◇ / I nspe kt/ (inspects , inspecting , inspected )
1 VERB 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. □ [V n] Elaine went outside to inspect the playing field. ● in|spec|tion / I nspe kʃ ə n/ (inspections ) N‑VAR □ [+ of ] He had completed his inspection of the doors.
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