indwell

[ in-dwel ]

verb (used with object)

, in·dwelt, in·dwell·ing.

1. to inhabit.
2. to possess (a person), as a moral principle or motivating force:

   compassion that indwells the heart.

verb (used without object)

, in·dwelt, in·dwell·ing.

1. to dwell (usually followed by in ).
2. to abide within, as a guiding force, motivating principle, etc. (usually followed by in ):

   a divine spirit indwelling in nature and the universe.

indwell

/ ɪnˈdwɛl /

verb

1. tr (of a spirit, principle, etc) to inhabit; suffuse
2. intr to dwell; exist

Derived Forms

• inˈdweller, noun

Other Words From

• indweller noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of indwell¹

First recorded in 1350–1400, indwell is from the Middle English word indwellen. See in- ¹, dwell

Example Sentences

Why should not a form of conscious life so interact with what would otherwise be dead matter as to 'indwell' it?

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• locate
• occupy
• populate
• possess
• reside