What does indented mean?
Indented describes something placed slightly inward from an edge, margin, or surrounding surface. In writing, an indented paragraph or line begins farther to the right than the normal text margin, helping to distinguish it or show its place in a document’s structure. The word can also describe a physical recess, such as an indented edge or surface. As a verb, indent means to create that inward space: a writer may indent a quotation, or a manufacturer may indent a metal panel. In everyday use, the term often suggests deliberate visual separation or careful formatting. It is distinct from “intended,” which refers to something planned or meant, and it is understood in both British and American English.
Set in from the margin, edge, or surrounding surface.
"The quotation appeared in an indented paragraph."
Common in typography and document formatting; also used physically for a recessed edge or surface.
To set text in from the margin or make an edge or surface recessed.
"The formatter indented each new section of the document."
Usually transitive; “indent the text” and “indent the edge” are standard constructions.
An indented line is a small visual signal that says: new paragraph, new thought, or at least a deliberate change in rhythm.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does indented come from?
The word comes from the English verb indent, which originally meant to make a dent or impression in something. The noun indent developed from the same root, and indented is its direct past-tense, past-participle, and adjective form. The spelling reflects the influence of Latin indentare, meaning “to notch” or “to cut into,” from the Latin noun dens, meaning “tooth.” The sense of arranging text with a space at the beginning of a line developed from the older physical meaning of cutting or setting something inward.
Related word forms
How indented is actually used
In typography and document formatting, indented usually refers to text beginning a short distance from the left margin. In general use, it can describe a recessed or inward-set surface. The verb is standard in both British and American English.
Easily confused with indented
Indented is set in from a margin, while intended means planned or meant to happen.