Meaning of the word indent in English

What does indent mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

indent

US /ɪnˈdent/
UK /ɪnˈdent/

Verb

1.

to start a line of text further from the margin than the main part of the text

Example:
•
Always indent the first line of each paragraph.
•
The bullet points were clearly indented for readability.
2.

to make a sharp, deep hollow or cut in a surface

Example:
•
The impact of the stone indented the car door.
•
The heavy box indented the soft wood of the floor.

Noun

1.

a space left by indenting a line or block of text

Example:
•
Make sure the indent is consistent throughout the document.
•
The paragraph began with a five-space indent.
2.

a sharp, deep hollow or cut made in a surface

Example:
•
There was a small indent on the side of the car from the collision.
•
The heavy furniture left a permanent indent in the carpet.