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inset

inset

2 5.4
A small picture or map that appears inside a larger page to show more detail
  • noun
  • /ˈɪnˌsɛt/
translation icon : inserto
  • The resource list offers suggestions for additional teaching materials (see inset) that secondary-level teachers will find helpful.
  • inset map
  • inset photo
  • inset shows the location

Examples

  • The inset map shows the spatial distribution of these land areas.

    Academic text (2012)
  • The inset shows the location of the Channel Islands in the state of California.

    Academic text (2011)
  • The red square in the inset indicates the study area in Thailand.

    Academic text (2014)
  • On the inset are the locations of Istanbul, Kastamonu Province, and the Mediterranean provinces.

    Academic text (2004)
  • We call this mapping the Nearest Neighbor Field (NNF), illustrated schematically in the inset figure.

    Academic text (2011)
  • System similarities are exemplified in three inset maps: northern Peru (inset 1), Cabo Frio (inset 2), and Chilo Island (inset 3).

    Academic text (2007)
  • The map shows the larger region, with an inset that highlights the city of Miami.

  • In addition to the main image, the book contains an inset of the ancient ruins for reference.

  • The article features a small inset showing the climate patterns of the area.

Synonyms

illustration
vsinset
66 2.8

A picture in a book that helps explain or decorate the text

is a small image placed inside a larger one to give detail
insert
vsinset
20 3.9

A piece placed inside something to give information or protect it

is a small image set within borders to provide additional information
subfigure
vsinset
  • Specialized
7.5

A labeled part of a larger picture, often named a or b

is a small embedded image used to add extra detail

How Big

enlargement
  • Specialized
6 3.9
inset
2 5.4
thumbnail
  • Texting
18 3.4

Surface Forms

inset singular
insets plural

Morphology

inset = inset (semi-transparent) = in + set

The noun can be understood as something set into a larger whole, but the specific picture-or-map sense is a specialized conventional use.

Etymology

Inset comes from the parts in- ('in') and set ('to put') and is like the word insert. A helpful image is a small map or photo 'set in' the corner of a larger map or page, so an inset is a small picture placed inside a larger one to show more detail.