cut or notch (something) at the edge or on a surface, start (a line of text) or position (text) further from the margin than the main part of the text, make a space or a series of spaces in (text) so that the first line of each paragraph is set in from the margin

indent one's mark, indent with a golden shovel, indent one's way

indent one's pocket, indentured servant, indentation error

Formal and Informal Expressions of indent

In different contexts, you can replace 'indent' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'score, notch, dimple' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'tab, space' is a commonplace synonym.

indent: Explore its Definition & Usage

indent Definition

1cut or notch (something) at the edge or on a surface
2start (a line of text) or position (text) further from the margin than the main part of the text
3make a space or a series of spaces in (text) so that the first line of each paragraph is set in from the margin

Using indent: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "indent" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The carpenter indented the wood to create a decorative pattern.
Example
Please indent the first line of each paragraph in your essay.
Example
The code editor automatically indents the code for better readability.

indent Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for indent

Antonyms for indent

Idioms Using indent

indent one's mark
make a lasting impression or impact on someone or something
Example
Her performance in the play indented her mark on the audience.
indent with a golden shovel
to give a person a job or position as a reward for their loyalty or support
Example
The new CEO indented his supporters with a golden shovel, giving them high-paying positions in the company.
indent one's way
work one's way up through hard work and perseverance
Example
She indented her way from a low-level employee to a top executive in the company.

Phrases with indent

indent one's pocket
reduce one's available funds by spending money
Example
I had to indent my pocket to pay for the car repairs.
indentured servant
a person who is bound by a signed or forced contract to work for a particular employer for a fixed time, typically three to seven years, in exchange for their transportation, food, clothing, lodging, and other necessities
Example
Many immigrants came to America as indentured servants in the 17th and 18th centuries.
indentation error
an error that occurs when the code is not properly indented in programming languages such as Python
Example
I kept getting an indentation error in my Python code until I fixed the spacing.

Origins of indent

from Latin 'indentare', meaning 'to notch'

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Summary: indent in Brief

The verb 'indent' [ɪnˈdɛnt] means to cut or notch something, start or position text further from the margin, or make a space in text for paragraphs. Examples include 'The carpenter indented the wood to create a decorative pattern.' and 'Please indent the first line of each paragraph in your essay.' Phrases like 'indentured servant' and 'indentation error' extend the term to historical and programming contexts, respectively.