Pronunciation: /ˈɪnˌleɪ/

Definitions of inlay

noun a decorative design or pattern set into a surface, typically a piece of wood or metal

Example Sentences

A1 The jewelry box had a beautiful inlay of mother of pearl on the lid.

A2 The table had an intricate inlay design made of different types of wood.

B1 The artisan used a special technique to create the inlay on the antique dresser.

B2 The museum displayed a collection of ancient artifacts with intricate inlays.

C1 The inlay on the guitar was expertly crafted and added to its overall beauty.

C2 The inlay work on the cathedral's marble floors was a masterpiece of craftsmanship.

verb to set a decorative design or pattern into a surface

Example Sentences

A1 She inlays colorful beads into the clay to make a beautiful design.

A2 The artist carefully inlayed the intricate patterns into the wood carving.

B1 The jeweler inlays precious stones into the silver necklace to enhance its beauty.

B2 The craftsman skillfully inlayed the marble tiles to create a stunning mosaic floor.

C1 The master artisan inlays gold leaf into the intricate design of the antique mirror.

C2 The restoration expert meticulously inlayed the missing pieces of the ancient mosaic artwork.

Examples of inlay in a Sentence

formal The artist used intricate inlay techniques to create a beautiful design on the wooden table.

informal I'm thinking of adding an inlay of mother of pearl to my guitar for some extra flair.

slang Check out the sick inlay on that skateboard deck!

figurative Her words seemed to inlay themselves into his heart, leaving a lasting impression.

Grammatical Forms of inlay

past tense

inlaid

plural

inlays

comparative

more inlaid

superlative

most inlaid

present tense

inlays

future tense

will inlay

perfect tense

has inlaid

continuous tense

is inlaying

singular

inlay

positive degree

inlay

infinitive

to inlay

gerund

inlaying

participle

inlaid

Origin and Evolution of inlay

First Known Use: 1601 year
Language of Origin: Middle English and Old French
Story behind the word: The word 'inlay' originated from the Middle English word 'enleggen', which came from the Old French word 'enlegier', meaning to embellish or decorate.
Evolution of the word: Initially used to describe the process of decorating or embellishing with materials set into the surface of another material, the word 'inlay' has evolved to encompass a broader range of decorative techniques and applications in various fields such as woodworking, metalworking, and jewelry making.