inched

The word "inched" is the past tense and past participle of the verb "to inch." It describes a very slow, small, or gradual movement. When something inches forward, it moves a tiny distance, often with difficulty or hesitation. For example, a car might inch its way through heavy traffic, or a person might inch closer to a dog they are afraid of. The word implies a deliberate but minimal progression.

Beyond physical movement, "inched" can also be used figuratively. A person's progress in a task or project might be described as inching along if it is proceeding very slowly. Similarly, prices or temperatures can inch upwards or downwards, indicating a gradual change. The term emphasizes the lack of rapid advancement and highlights the subtle nature of the alteration. The opposite of inching would be a swift or sudden movement.