WordLens

inscribe

1 of 1verb
/ɪnˈskraɪb/
Forms:inscribes,inscribing,inscribed,inscribed
1

to mark or engrave a surface with a design or pattern, typically to create a lasting impression or decoration

transitive
  • Next week, the jeweler will inscribe the couple's wedding rings with their initials and wedding date.
  • The historical monument was inscribed with the names of those who contributed to its construction.
  • The ancient tablet was inscribed with mysterious symbols that scholars are still trying to decipher.
  • Families sometimes inscribe their loved ones' gravestones with heartfelt messages or significant quotes.
  • As a tradition, graduates often inscribe their yearbooks with fond memories and best wishes for the future.
2

to write or sign a personalized message or dedication, often signed, inside a book or another item intended as a gift to someone

transitive
  • Before presenting the album to her parents, she inscribed a heartfelt message on the CD sleeve.
  • Before giving the cookbook to her mother, she inscribed a warm message on the inside cover.
  • The artist inscribed a special message on the back of the painting she was presenting to her mentor.
  • The teacher inscribed a message of encouragement in the yearbook she was presenting to her students.
  • She inscribed a heartfelt message in the novel she was presenting as a birthday gift to her best friend.
Synonyms:
3

to write a brief dedication or message in a book, song lyrics, etc.

transitive
  • The author inscribed her latest novel with a heartfelt message to her loyal readers.
  • The songwriter inscribed the CD cover with a brief dedication to his family and friends who inspired his music journey.
  • The poet inscribed his collection of poems with a poignant dedication to his muse.
  • The playwright inscribed the script of his latest play with a dedication to the theater troupe.
  • The filmmaker inscribed the DVD box set with a special dedication to the cast and crew who contributed to the project.
4

to draw one figure within another in such a way that the boundaries of the inner figure touch those of the outer figure but do not cross them

transitive
  • In geometry class, students learned how to inscribe a circle within a square.
  • The sculptor planned to inscribe a smaller triangle within the larger one.
  • The ancient Greeks often inscribed equilateral triangles within circles as symbols of perfection and harmony.
  • The mathematician demonstrated how to inscribe a regular hexagon within a circle using a compass and straightedge.
  • The engineer calculated the dimensions needed to inscribe a pentagon in a hexagon.
5

to record or register the name of an individual onto a list, document, or book

transitive
  • Voters were required to inscribe their names on the voting list before casting their ballots.
  • Athletes must inscribe their names on the competition roster to officially enter the race.
  • Employees are requested to inscribe their names on the overtime sign-up sheet if they wish to work additional hours.
  • In order to reserve a spot, patrons must inscribe their names on the waiting list for the popular restaurant.
  • To participate in the workshop, participants need to inscribe their names on the online registration form.