Embed

Definition

Embed means to fix something firmly and deeply into a surrounding mass or context. It is often used figuratively to refer to ideas, concepts, or data being deeply ingrained within a system, culture, or process.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪmˈbɛd/
• Respelling: im-BED

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪmˈbɛd/
• Respelling: im-BED

The pronunciation of "embed" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "embed" is derived from the prefix "em-" meaning "in" or "into" and the Old English word "bedd" meaning "bed," in the sense of something being placed or lodged firmly into another thing. The word came into use in the late 16th century, initially referring to placing objects physically into something else, and later developed figurative meanings.

Derivatives

• Embedding (verb)
• Embedded (adjective/verb)
• Embeddable (adjective)
• Re-embed (verb)
• Embeddedness (noun)

Synonyms

• Implant
• Insert
• Engrain

Antonyms

• Extract
• Remove
• Dislodge

Usage

The word "embed" is used both literally and figuratively. In a literal sense, it refers to placing an object firmly into another object or material. In a figurative sense, it is commonly used in technology, culture, and communication to describe how information, values, or ideas are deeply integrated into systems or processes.

Related Terms

• Integrate: To combine or incorporate parts into a whole.
• Implant: To fix or set deeply, especially in a biological or medical context.
• Ingrain: To deeply embed something within a culture, habit, or system.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To fix firmly into a surrounding mass or material: Describes the act of setting something securely into a larger structure.
  • Example: "The archaeologists discovered an ancient stone embedded in the hillside."
• To incorporate deeply into a system or process: Refers to something becoming an integral part of a larger system, often referring to ideas, values, or technologies.
  • Example: "The new security protocols were deeply embedded in the company's procedures."