Definition

Describing something that is growing inward or into something else, particularly into the flesh.

Example

The ingrowing toenail caused her a lot of pain.

Conversation

Have you ever had an issue with an ingrowing toenail?

Yeah, I had that once, and it was really painful.

I can imagine! It must be tough to walk with an ingrowing nail.

For sure, but thankfully, it healed up after a few days.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ingrowing is formed from "in-" (meaning into) and "grow" (from Old English "growan", meaning to grow). The word describes something that is growing inward or into something else.

Memory Tip

Think of something growing 'into' ('in-') another thing — that's why ingrowing refers to something that grows inward.

Visually Confused Words