Definition

1. Verb:

   • To set a line of text further from the margin than the main part of the text: To start a line of writing or printing with a blank space at the beginning.
   • To make a notch, dent, or depression in a surface: To form a recess or hollow in something.
   • To make a formal agreement or order: To draw up a document in duplicate with a serrated edge for authentication, or to place an order, especially for foreign goods.

2. Noun:

   • The space left at the beginning of a line when it is indented: The blank space at the start of a paragraph or line.
   • A formal order or contract: A legal agreement, especially one binding an apprentice, or an order for goods.
   • A notch or recess: A cut or depression in an edge or surface.

Examples of Usage

• Verb:

  • You should indent the first line of each paragraph.
  • The hailstorm indented the roof of the car.
  • The company will indent for new supplies from the overseas manufacturer.

• Noun:

  • Use a tab to create a half-inch indent.
  • He signed an indent to work as an apprentice for five years.
  • The coastline is marked by deep indents and bays.

Advanced Usage

• "To indent upon (someone) for (something)": To make a formal demand or requisition for supplies.

  • The garrison was forced to indent upon the local villagers for food.

• "Indented document": A legal document, such as a contract or deed, executed in duplicate with matching, irregularly cut edges to prevent forgery.

  • The historic land deed was an indented document.

Variants and Related Words

• Indentation (n): The action of indenting or the state of being indented; a deep recess or notch.
  • The indentation of the paragraph makes it easier to read.
• Indenture (n/v): A formal legal agreement or contract, especially one binding an apprentice to a master. As a verb, it means to bind by such a contract.
  • He was indentured to a blacksmith at the age of fourteen.

Synonyms

• Verb (for text): Set in, tab.
• Verb (for dent): Dent, notch, depress.
• Noun (for space): Tab, margin.
• Noun (for contract): Contract, agreement, covenant.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Indent for: To make a formal written order or requisition for something.
  • The office manager will indent for new stationery.

Related Idioms

• To take up an indent: To accept or enter into a formal contract of apprenticeship.
  • In the 18th century, many young men would take up an indent to learn a trade.

Noun

1. the space left between the margin and the start of an indented line
2. an order for goods to be exported or imported

Verb

1. bind by or as if by indentures, as of an apprentice or servant
   • an indentured servant
2. notch the edge of or make jagged
3. make a depression into
   • The bicycle dented my car
4. cut or tear along an irregular line so that the parts can later be matched for authentication
   • indent the documents
5. set in from the margin
   • Indent the paragraphs of a letter