Definition

Describing something that has grown into the flesh or inward instead of outward, often causing discomfort or problems, like a toenail that grows into the skin.

Example

She had to see a doctor because of her painful ingrown toenail.

Conversation

I’ve been dealing with this ingrown toenail for weeks now.

Ouch, that sounds painful! Have you seen a doctor?

Yeah, but they said it might need to be removed if it keeps growing like this.

That’s tough. I hope it gets better soon!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ingrown → It is formed from "in-" (meaning in or into) and "grown" (from the past participle of "grow", meaning to develop or increase). The word "ingrown" describes something that has grown into the surrounding tissue, often used in medical contexts such as ingrown toenails.

Memory Tip

Think of something that has grown "into" ("in-") its surroundings — that's why ingrown refers to something that has developed inward.

Visually Confused Words