ingrained — existing as a natural or basic part of something; deeply rooted and difficult to change
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: existing as a natural or basic part of something; deeply rooted and difficult to change
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɪnˈɡreɪnd/
Example Sentences
- My grandmother's ingrained habit of saving plastic bags drove my mother crazy.
- His ingrained politeness made him apologize even when someone else stepped on his foot.
- The company's ingrained culture of innovation has led to breakthrough products.
ingrained
ADJECTIVE[/ɪnˈɡreɪnd/]
existing as a natural or basic part of something; deeply rooted and difficult to change
an elderly grandmother automatically reaches for salt before even tasting her scrambled eggs. She sprinkles salt generously over her entire plate out of pure habit. Her concerned grandson gently tries to stop her hand, reminding her about her doctor's orders to reduce sodium. The grandmother pauses but then continues salting anyway, as if her hand moves on its own. Other family members at the breakfast table shake their heads knowingly, having witnessed this same routine countless times before. a behavior that exists as a natural part of someone and is deeply rooted and difficult to change
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From the phrase 'in grain,' originally referring to dye that was worked deep into the grain (fiber) of fabric, making it permanent and impossible to remove.
Breakdown
in- (into/within) + grain (fiber, texture, or natural pattern of material) + -ed (past participle suffix)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My grandmother's ingrained habit of saving plastic bags drove my mother crazy.”
“His ingrained politeness made him apologize even when someone else stepped on his foot.”
“The company's ingrained culture of innovation has led to breakthrough products.”
“It took years to overcome her ingrained fear of public speaking.”
📚Related Words
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