1 C1 neutral
(Automotive) A wheel alignment setting where the front edges of the wheels point slightly inward.
"The mechanic adjusted the front wheels to toe in by two millimetres for better handling."
inseparable
toe in
C1 neutral inseparable transitive/intransitive
To angle the front of wheels or feet inward so they point toward each other.
In plain English
When the front of wheels or feet point inward toward the middle.
What does "toe in" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 C1 neutral
(Posture/gait) To walk or stand with the toes pointing inward.
"The child was seen to toe in slightly when walking, which the physiotherapist recommended monitoring."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
The toes (of wheels or feet) pointing inward.
Actually means
When the front of wheels or feet point inward toward the middle.
Usage tip
Primarily a technical/automotive term describing wheel alignment. Also used in biomechanics and physiotherapy to describe walking posture. As a noun 'toe-in' is the standard engineering term.
Words that pair with "toe in"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
wheels alignment front wheels stance feet tyres
How to conjugate "toe in"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
toe in
I/you/we/they
3rd person
toes in
he/she/it
Past simple
toed in
yesterday
Past participle
toed in
have + pp
-ing form
toing in
continuous
Hear "toe in" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "toe in" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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