Definition

1. Verb:
   • To fix or set something securely or deeply into a surrounding mass: The primary meaning refers to the physical act of placing an object firmly into another material so that it is held in place.
   • To fix or establish something firmly in a surrounding context: This can be used more abstractly to describe something, like a memory or idea, becoming a permanent and integral part of a person's mind or a situation.

Examples of Usage

• Verb:
  • The jeweler will imbed the diamond securely in the gold setting.
  • The bullet was embedded in the wall.
  • The image of that sunset is embedded in my memory forever.

Advanced Usage

• "To be/become embedded": This passive form is very common, describing the state of being firmly fixed or entrenched.
  • The cultural values are deeply embedded in the society's traditions.
  • A piece of shrapnel became embedded in his leg.

Variants and Related Words

• Embed: This is the more common modern spelling of the word. "Imbed" and "embed" are variant spellings of the same word.
• Embedded (adj): Describes something that is fixed firmly and deeply.
  • The journalist traveled with the embedded troops.
• Embedment (n): The act of embedding or the state of being embedded.

Synonyms

• Implant: To insert or fix something, especially in tissue or the mind.
• Insert: To put or set into something else.
• Engrain/Ingrain: To firmly fix an idea or habit (used abstractly).
• Lodge: To become fixed or stuck in a place.

Related Phrasal Verbs

(Note: "Imbed" itself is not typically used with particles to form distinct phrasal verbs. The action is usually expressed with prepositions like "in" or "into.")

Related Idioms

(Note: There are no common idioms that use the exact word "imbed." The concept is usually expressed in descriptive phrases.)

Verb

1. fix or set securely or deeply
   • He planted a knee in the back of his opponent
   • The dentist implanted a tooth in the gum