What does infilling mean?
Infilling is the act or process of filling a gap, cavity, crack, or other empty space, and sometimes the material used to do so. It is especially common in construction, engineering, geology, and related technical writing, where material is inserted into a depression, cavity, or damaged area. Figuratively, infilling means adding missing information, context, or explanation to make a record or account more complete. In conversation analysis, it also refers to one speaker completing another speaker's interrupted or unfinished utterance. The word is generally neutral, although technical senses can sound procedural and abstract uses can suggest that something incomplete has been carefully repaired. “Fill in” is often more conversational, while “infilling” tends to name a process, material, or domain-specific technique. Knowing the term helps distinguish filling a literal void from supplying missing information or keeping a conversation coherent.
The act or process of filling a gap or empty space; the material inserted for this purpose; or the addition of missing information to complete something.
"The infilling of the cavity with cement strengthened the damaged wall."
Usually uncountable when referring to the overall process or material.
To fill a gap, cavity, or missing area by inserting something into it.
"Engineers are infilling the damaged section with reinforced concrete."
Most often encountered as a gerund or present participle in technical and figurative contexts.
Usually uncountable when referring to the process or material; plural forms are uncommon and generally denote separate episodes or deposits.
"Geologists mapped several distinct infillings within the basin."
Infilling is how conversation quietly repairs a stumble: one speaker supplies the missing words and keeps the exchange moving.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does infilling come from?
Infilling was formed in English by combining the established verb “fill” with the prefix “in-,” expressing the placement of material into an existing space. The base verb comes from Old English “fyllan,” meaning “to fill” or “make full,” and is related to “full.” The resulting term is now used both for physical processes and, by extension, for the supply of missing information or the completion of an interrupted utterance.
Related word forms
How infilling is actually used
The word is neutral to technical depending on context. It is usually uncountable when referring to a process or mass of material, while “filling in” is often more conversational in figurative use.
Easily confused with infilling
Infiltration is the movement or penetration of something into a place or organization, whereas infilling is the deliberate placement of material or information into a gap.