# embedded

/ɛmˈbɛdɪd/ (US) · /ɛmbˈɛdɪd/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/embedded
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. fixed firmly inside

adjective · CEFR B2

fixed deeply and firmly into a surrounding substance or surface.

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

- The hikers found a piece of ancient wood embedded in the dry mud.
- Geologists discovered several rare mineral crystals embedded deep within the volcanic rock, suggesting a complex cooling process.

### 2. part of a system

adjective · CEFR B2 · Technical

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

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

- The video is embedded directly into the webpage so you can watch it here.
- The new smart appliance features an embedded operating system designed to optimise energy consumption based on user habits.

### 3. deeply rooted ideas

adjective · CEFR C1 · Academic

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

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

- These traditions are deeply embedded in the local culture.
- The researchers argued that these biases were so deeply embedded in the institutional framework that only a complete overhaul would suffice.

### 4. to fix something into

verb · CEFR B2

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

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

- He embedded the fence posts in concrete to make sure they wouldn't move.
- The journalist was embedded with the infantry unit for three months to provide a first-hand account of the conflict.

## Examples

- The glass shards are deeply embedded in the carpet.
- The journalist lived with the soldiers for months as an embedded reporter during the conflict.
- These traditional beliefs are so deeply embedded in the local culture that modern legal reforms have struggled to gain any significant traction among the rural population.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.