Inch

Definition

Inch is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a unit of length in the imperial and U.S. customary systems, equal to 1/12 of a foot or 2.54 centimeters. As a verb, it means to move slowly or by small increments.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪntʃ/
• Respelling: inch

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪntʃ/
• Respelling: inch

Etymology

The word "inch" originates from the Latin "uncia," meaning "one-twelfth part," which referred to both a unit of length and a unit of weight. The term was adopted into Old English as "ynce" via Old High German "unz." It came to signify a standard unit of length in English measurements.

Derivatives

• Inched (verb, past tense)
• Inching (verb, present participle)
• Inchmeal (adverb, archaic)
• Inch-perfect (adjective)
• Inchmark (noun, rare)

Synonyms

• Measure
• Step
• Increment

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "inch" is commonly used in measurement and metaphorical contexts. For example, "The table is 36 inches long," or "He inched closer to the door."

Related Terms

• Centimeter: A unit of length in the metric system.
• Foot: A larger unit of length in the imperial system, equal to 12 inches.
• Yard: Another imperial unit of length, equivalent to 36 inches.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A unit of length equal to 1/12 of a foot: Refers to the measurement used in the imperial system.
  • Example: "The book is 8 inches tall."
• A small amount or degree: Used metaphorically to describe minimal progress or change.
  • Example: "He did not give an inch during the negotiation."

Verb

• To move slowly or in small increments: Refers to gradual or cautious movement.
  • Example: "The snail inched its way across the garden."
• To advance by a very small degree: Describes slight progress toward a goal.
  • Example: "The car inched forward in the traffic jam."