ENGLISH
REFERENCE

embedded

adj. · v.
US //ɛmˈbɛdɪd// UK //ɛmbˈɛdɪd// em·bed·ded
  1. 1 fixed firmly inside (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    fixed deeply and firmly into a surrounding substance or surface.

    firmly and securely surrounded by a mass; lodged solidly into a medium.

    Example

    The hikers found a piece of ancient wood embedded in the dry mud.

    Example

    Geologists discovered several rare mineral crystals embedded deep within the volcanic rock, suggesting a complex cooling process.

  2. 2 part of a system (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Computing

    built into a larger system or piece of software so that it is a permanent part of it.

    integrated as an essential part of a larger whole, particularly in computing or social structures.

    Example

    The video is embedded directly into the webpage so you can watch it here.

    Example

    The new smart appliance features an embedded operating system designed to optimise energy consumption based on user habits.

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  1. 3 deeply rooted ideas (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Academic

    describing an idea or feeling that is very strong and difficult to change.

    describing attitudes, beliefs, or practices that are firmly established and difficult to dislodge from a culture or mindset.

    Example

    These traditions are deeply embedded in the local culture.

    Example

    The researchers argued that these biases were so deeply embedded in the institutional framework that only a complete overhaul would suffice.

  2. 4 to fix something into (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the past tense of 'embed', meaning to put something firmly into something else.

    the past tense and past participle of the transitive verb 'embed', meaning to fix an object or idea into a surrounding mass.

    Example

    He embedded the fence posts in concrete to make sure they wouldn't move.

    Example

    The journalist was embedded with the infantry unit for three months to provide a first-hand account of the conflict.

Origin

From embed + -ed.

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