What are the definitions of “tuck in”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Tidy the ends of items of clothing by placing them inside something.
I forgot to TUCK my shirt IN.
- 2Start eating enthusiastically.
The dinner smelled so good I couldn't wait to TUCK IN.
- 3Arrange the sheets, duvet or blankets to make someone, usually a child, comfortable in bed.
He TUCKED her IN and read her a story.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “tuck in”?
The phrasal verb tuck in has multiple meanings depending on the context.
What are the different verb forms of “tuck in”?
| Root Verb | *tuck in* |
| Third Person Singular Present | *tucks in* |
| Present Participle | *tucking in* |
| Simple Past | *tucked in* |
| Past Participle | *tucked in* |
Example
I forgot to tuck my shirt in before leaving the house.
Example
She always tucks in her children at bedtime.
Example
They're discussing the best way of tucking in the sheets.
Example
Last night, she tucked in her kids and read them a bedtime story.
Example
The sheets were neatly tucked in for a cozy sleep.
What kind of phrasal verb is “tuck in”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“tuck in” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
I forgot to tuck my shirt in before leaving the house.
Example
He tucked his daughter in and kissed her goodnight.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“tuck in” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
I forgot to tuck my shirt in before leaving the house.
Example
He tucked his daughter in and kissed her goodnight.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “tuck in”?
To refer to the act of beginning a meal with eagerness and enthusiasm.
Example
The dinner smelled so good I couldn't wait to tuck in.
Good things to know
Does “tuck in” have an informal or formal tone?
The phrasal verb tuck in is versatile and can be used in various contexts. It is appropriate for both casual and formal conversations, as well as written communication.
