Inch: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe small lengths or increments, commonly used in the United States.

• The shelf is off by just an inch.
• He moved an inch closer to the window.

Used to describe larger lengths, commonly used in the United States to measure human height or room dimensions.

• The ceiling is 10 feet high.
• He is six feet tall.

Used to describe small lengths or increments, commonly in countries using the metric system.

• The fabric is 30 centimeters wide.
• She measured the book's height in centimeters.

Used to indicate a slow, gradual movement, often in small increments.

• She inched her way closer to the edge to get a better view.
• The car inched forward in the heavy traffic.

Often used to describe quiet, stealthy movement, sometimes with a slightly negative or eerie connotation.

• She tried to creep past the sleeping dog without waking it.
• A feeling of unease crept over him as he walked through the dark alley.

Typically used to describe a very slow movement, often on hands and knees, or when referring to babies or small creatures.

• The baby learned to crawl at six months old.
• He had to crawl through the narrow tunnel to reach the cave.