— inlayer , n.
v. /in"lay', in'lay"/ ; n. /in"lay'/ , v. , inlaid, inlaying , n.
v.t.
1. to decorate (an object) with layers of fine materials set in its surface: to inlay a chest with lighter wood.
2. to insert or apply (layers of fine materials) in the surface of an object: to inlay marble in a tabletop.
3. Hort. to place (a fitted scion) into a prepared stock, as in a method of grafting.
n.
4. inlaid work.
5. a layer of fine material inserted in something else, esp. for ornament.
6. a design or decoration made by inlaying.
7. Dentistry. a filling of metal, porcelain, or the like, that is first shaped to fit a cavity and then cemented into it.
8. Hort. See inlay graft .
9. the act or process of inlaying.
[ 1590-1600; IN- 1 + LAY 1 ]