inlaid
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ɪnˈleɪd/
KK: /ɪnˈleɪd/
adjective
Definition
Describes something that has a decorative pattern or design set into its surface, often used in furniture or flooring.
Example
The table was beautifully inlaid with intricate designs of flowers and leaves.
Conversation
Have you seen that beautiful table with the inlaid design at the antique shop?
Yes, I noticed it! The craftsmanship is amazing.
I love how the patterns are so detailed and really stand out.
Exactly! It would be a great centerpiece for any room.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
decorated
embedded
inserted
Antonyms
plain
unadorned
simple
verb
Definition
To set something into a surface, often for decoration or design, so that it is level with the surface.
Example
The artisan inlaid beautiful patterns into the wooden table.
Tense Forms
Past: inlaid
Past Participle: inlaid
Conversation
Did you see the new table they inlaid with marble?
Yeah, it looks amazing!
I love how they inlaid different colors together.
Root Explanation
Inlaid → It is formed from "in-" (meaning in or into) and "laid" (the past participle of "lay", meaning to place or put down). The word "inlaid" describes something that has been placed into a surface, often referring to decorative work where materials are set into a base material.
Memory Tip
Think of something being 'put into' a surface — 'in-' means in or into, and 'laid' means to place.
Visually Confused Words
uninlaid
unlaid
naid
laid
interlaid