Definition

1. Verb:

   • To put or introduce something into something else: The primary meaning of "insert" is to place an object inside another object or a space.
   • To add text, an image, or other content into a document or sequence: In writing, publishing, or computing, "insert" means to add new material into an existing body of work.

2. Noun:

   • Something that is put or placed into something else: An "insert" is an object designed to be placed inside another.
   • A supplementary section or page added into a publication: In publishing, an "insert" is a separate leaf, such as an advertisement or illustration, placed within a magazine, book, or newspaper.
   • A still picture or scene interrupting the action in a film or broadcast: In media, an "insert" is a brief shot, often a close-up, edited into the main sequence.

Usage Examples

• Verb:

  • Please insert your credit card into the machine.
  • The editor asked me to insert a new paragraph into the third chapter.
  • He inserted the key into the lock and turned it.

• Noun:

  • The magazine included a colorful advertising insert.
  • The film used an insert of a ticking clock to build tension.
  • The furniture came with a protective foam insert for the glass shelf.

Advanced Usage

• "To insert oneself": To place oneself into a situation, often where one is not necessarily wanted or invited.

  • He always tries to insert himself into our private conversations.

• In computing: A command to add data.

  • Use the 'Insert' key on your keyboard to toggle between insert and overwrite typing modes.

Variants and Related Words

• Insertion (n): The act of inserting, or something that is inserted.
  • The insertion of the clause changed the contract's meaning.

Synonyms

• Introduce: To bring in for the first time.
• Place in: To put something into a specific location.
• Embed: To fix something firmly and deeply in a surrounding mass.
• Incorporate: To take in or include as part of a whole.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Insert into: The most common construction, meaning to put something inside something else.
  • Insert the plug into the socket.

Related Idioms

• No common idioms are primarily built around the word "insert."

Noun

1. (film) a still picture that is introduced and that interrupts the action of a film
2. (broadcasting) a local announcement inserted into a network program
3. an artifact that is inserted or is to be inserted
4. a folded section placed between the leaves of another publication

Verb

1. insert casually
   • She slipped in a reference to her own work
2. fit snugly into
   • insert your ticket into the slot
   • tuck your shirttail in
3. introduce
   • Insert your ticket here
4. put or introduce into something
   • insert a picture into the text