What does indent mean?
Indent is chiefly a verb meaning to leave blank space at the beginning of a line of text. It is common in writing, publishing, word processing, and typography, where an indented first line can mark the opening of a paragraph or distinguish one section from another. The word can also mean to press, cut, or form a small hollow or groove in a material surface, as when a wheel indents soft earth. Its related noun use refers to such a hollow or to the space placed before a line of text. Although many modern writing formats favor paragraph spacing rather than first-line indentation, the verb remains standard in editorial and technical instructions. Historically, the word comes from the same Latin root as dent, reflecting the original sense of a tooth-shaped indentation.
To leave blank space at the beginning of a line of text, or to form a groove, hollow, or depression in a surface.
"Use the formatting tool to indent the citation beneath the quotation."
The text-formatting sense is standard British and US English. The surface sense is especially natural for impacts, pressure, tools, or materials that can be marked.
A hollow, groove, or depression in a surface; also, a space left before the beginning of a line of text.
"There was a small indent in the wall where the picture had hung."
As a noun, the word is common in both physical and typographic contexts.
Used for separate hollows, grooves, or typographic spaces.
"The old printing block had several uneven indents along its edge."
From Latin dens, meaning “tooth”: an indent literally began as the mark left by a tooth pressing into a surface.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does indent come from?
Indent ultimately derives from Latin dens, meaning “tooth,” through an inherited French word based on the root of dent. The word originally referred to a hollow or mark resembling a tooth impression. Its later sense of leaving a margin at the beginning of a line developed by analogy with the indentation of text. English cognates include dent, dental, dentist, and, through French, dandelion.
Related word forms
How indent is actually used
In typography, indent most commonly refers to beginning a line farther to the right than the lines around it. In physical contexts, it can describe a dent or groove, often one made by pressing or striking a surface.
Easily confused with indent
Indent means to leave a margin or make a groove, whereas indict means to accuse someone formally of a crime.
Indent is a verb and noun concerning indentation, while intent is a noun or adjective meaning determination or purpose.