indent
indent1 definition
in·dent (in dent′; for n. in′dent′, in dent′)
transitive verb
- to cut toothlike points into (an edge or border); notch; also, to join by mating notches
- to make jagged or zigzag in outline
- to sever (a written contract, etc.) along an irregular line, so that the parts may be identified
- to write out (a contract, etc.) in duplicate
- to bind (a servant or apprentice) by indenture
- to space (the first line of a paragraph, an entire paragraph, a column of figures, etc.) in from the regular margin
- to order by an indent
Etymology: ME endenten < OFr endenter or ML indentare, both < L in, in + dens, tooth
intransitive verb
- to form or be marked by notches, points, or a jagged border
- to space in from the margin; make an indention
- to draw up an order or requisition in duplicate or triplicate
noun
- a notch or cut in an edge
- an indenture, or written contract
- a space in from the margin; indention
- an indented line, paragraph, etc.
- Business an order form used in foreign trade and usually drawn up in duplicate or triplicate; specif.,
- any order for foreign merchandise
- an export order to buy certain goods at stated terms
indent2 definition
in·dent (in dent′; for n. in′dent′, in dent′)
transitive verb
- to make a dent, or slight hollow, in
- to apply (a mark, etc.) with pressure; impress; stamp in
noun
a dent
Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
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