Inch

English Meaning

An island; -- often used in the names of small islands off the coast of Scotland, as in Inchcolm, Inchkeith, etc.

1. A unit of length in the U.S. Customary and British Imperial systems, equal to 1/12 of a foot (2.54 centimeters). See Table at measurement.
2. A fall, as of rain or snow, sufficient to cover a surface to the depth of one inch.
3. A unit of atmospheric pressure that is equal to the pressure exerted by a one-inch column of mercury at the earth's surface at a temperature of 0°C.
4. A very small degree or amount: won't budge an inch.
5. To move or cause to move slowly or by small degrees: inching along through stalled traffic; inched the chair forward.
6. every inch In every respect; entirely: "Ay, every inch a king!” ( Shakespeare).
7. inch by inch Very gradually or slowly.
8. within an inch of Almost to the point of: came within an inch of death.
9. Scots A small island.