English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
noun

inkwell

INK-wel
Quiz me More like this

Inkwell (noun) means a small container that holds ink, set up so that a pen can be dipped into it for a refill. Example: “She dipped the quill into the inkwell and began to write.”

noun
1
A small container that holds ink, set up so that a pen can be dipped into it for a refill.
"She dipped the quill into the inkwell and began to write."
"The old desk had a small hole in the top where an inkwell once sat."
"He knocked the inkwell over and stained the letter."

How to use inkwell

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA little pot that holds ink for dipping a pen into.

When to use it

Neutral in tone, though the object itself now mostly belongs to older styles of writing.

Memory tip

The plural is simply inkwells.

Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
dip a pen in the inkwell a china inkwell an inkwell on the desk fill the inkwell
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like inkwell.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Test yourself on “inkwell” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

She dipped the quill into the _____ and began to write.

Etymology

Inkwell is a compound formed in English from the words ink and well.

Origin: English

inkpot inkstand

Frequently asked questions

What is an inkwell?
An inkwell is a container for ink. It is designed so that someone can dip a pen into it whenever more ink is needed.
What is another word for inkwell?
Inkpot is a common synonym. Inkstand is a close term, though it is not an exact match.
Is inkwell one word or two?
It is usually written as one word, inkwell. The forms ink well and ink-well also exist.
What is the meaning of inkwell?
"inkwell" (noun) means a small container that holds ink, set up so that a pen can be dipped into it for a refill.