inches

inch-es · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    Plural of inch; multiple units of linear measure, each equal to one twelfth of a foot (2.54 centimeters).

  2. 2.

    A very small distance or amount (plural).

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    by inches — gradually, little by little
  • •
    miss by inches — to come very close to hitting or achieving something

Related words

See also: centimeter, foot, inch

Etymology

From Old English ynce, from Latin uncia ("twelfth part") + English plural suffix -es.