in situ

[ in sahy-too, -tyoo, see-; Latin in sit-oo ]

adverb

1. situated in the original, natural, or existing place or position:

   The archaeologists were able to date the vase because it was found in situ.

2. Medicine/Medical.
   1. in place or position; undisturbed.
   2. (especially of a malignant tumor) in a localized state or condition:

      carcinoma in situ.

in situ

/ ɪn ˈsɪtjuː /

adverb

1. in the natural, original, or appropriate position
2. pathol (esp of a cancerous growth or tumour) not seen to be spreading from a localized position

in situ

1. In the original place or arrangement: “The body was left in situ until the police arrived.” From Latin , meaning “in position.”

Word History and Origins

Origin of in situ¹

First recorded in 1730–40, in situ is from Latin in sitū literally, “in place”

Example Sentences

The corpse however remained in situ due to suspected booby traps and instead, part of a finger was removed and sent to Israel for testing.

From BBC

For many archaeologists, wrecks like the San José should be left in peace and explored “in situ” – on the ocean floor.

From BBC

While thankfully the site - off Waterswallows Road - was never used in anger, the sale does include some original items in situ.

From BBC

“I was recently diagnosed with DCIS, which stands for ductal carcinoma in situ, which is a form of breast cancer,” the “Boy Meets World” alumna, 43, said Monday on her “Pod Meets World” podcast.

From Los Angeles Times

The fight Lee is referring to is her diagnosis nine years ago of ductal carcinoma in situ, a precancerous condition that can lead to malignant breast cancer.

From Salon

Related Words

• situated