ingrown

[ in-grohn ]

adjective

1. having grown grown into the flesh:

   an ingrown toenail.

2. grown grown within or inward.

ingrown

/ ˈɪnˌɡrəʊn; ɪnˈɡrəʊn /

adjective

1. (esp of a toenail) grown abnormally into the flesh; covered by adjacent tissues
2. grown within; native; innate
3. excessively concerned with oneself, one's own particular group, etc
4. ingrained

Word History and Origins

Origin of ingrown¹

First recorded in 1660–70; in- ¹ + grown

Example Sentences

Fissures had formed in the 55-year-old Asian elephant’s foot pads, and her toenails had cracked and become ingrown.

From New York Times

“Sometimes when I shaved, the wool uniform would irritate my skin and cause ingrown hairs or a rash,” he wrote.

From Los Angeles Times

Many departments, including Philadelphia’s, began letting officers grow short beards if shaving was likely to lead to ingrown facial hairs, a condition common among Black men.

From Seattle Times

He sat Tuesday after having an ingrown toenail removed.

From Washington Times

They can test for toenail fungus and advise you on topical or oral treatments when necessary, treat ingrown nails and assess damage from trauma to a nail.

From Washington Post