walk-in

American  

[wawk-in] / ˈwɔkˌɪn /

adjective

1. of or relating to persons who walk into a place from the street, especially irregularly or without an appointment.

   walk-in customers; walk-in sales; a walk-in patient.

2. large enough to be walked into.

   a walk-in kitchen.

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noun

1. a person, as a customer, patient, or interviewee, who arrives without an appointment.

   Many of the clinic's patients are walk-ins who suddenly need help.

2. something large enough to be walked into, as a closet.

3. an assured victory in an election or other contest.

walk-in British  

adjective

1. (of a cupboard) large enough to allow a person to enter and move about in

2. (of a building or apartment) located so as to admit of direct access from the street

3. (of a flat or house) in a suitable condition for immediate occupation

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Etymology

Origin of walk-in

First recorded in 1925–30; adj., noun use of verb phrase walk in

Example Sentences

The master bedroom features enough space for a king-sized bed, large windows, and a walk-in closet.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 14, 2026

The property also offers an enormous walk-in closet, as well as a “spa-like” bathroom that features a spacious bathtub and a steam shower.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 13, 2026

Among its more impressive features are an extraordinary great room with a 30-foot ceiling, as well as an expansive primary suite that boasts a sitting room, balcony, enormous walk-in closet, and two bathrooms.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 31, 2026

But the walk-in centre is not for medical emergencies, sprains, repeat prescriptions or long-term conditions.

From BBC • Feb. 24, 2026

The walk-in freezer is full of boxes, and I sit on the one in the back corner and relax.

From "Ask the Passengers" by A.S. King

Related Words

• applicant
• buyer
• consumer
• patient
• patron
• shopper