inside

in-side · preposition

imported

Definitions

preposition

  1. 1.

    Situated within the confines of.

  2. 2.

    In less than a specified period of time.

  3. 3.

    The inner side, part, or surface.

  4. 4.

    (insides) A person's stomach and bowels.

  5. 5.

    Situated on or within the inside.

  6. 6.

    In or into the interior.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    inside out — with the inner surface turned outward
  • •
    inside information — confidential or privileged knowledge
  • •
    on the inside — in a privileged position
  • •
    know something inside out — understand something thoroughly
  • •
    inside joke — a joke understood only by certain people

Related words

Antonyms: exterior, outside
See also: in, interior, outside, within
Synonyms: in, indoors, within

Etymology

From Middle English, compound of "in" + "side." Originally two separate words that merged into one in the 14th century. The prepositional use developed from the adverbial sense.