In*lay" (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Inlaied (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Inlaying.] To lay within; hence, to insert, as pieces of pearl, ivory, choice woods, or the like, in a groundwork of some other material; to form an ornamental surface; to diversify or adorn with insertions.

Look, how the floor of heaven
Is thick inlaid with patines of bright gold.

But these things are . . . borrowed by the monks to inlay their story.

In"lay` (?), n. Matter or pieces of wood, ivory, etc., inlaid, or prepared for inlaying; that which is inserted or inlaid for ornament or variety.

Crocus and hyacinth with rich inlay
Broidered the ground.

The sloping of the moonlit sward
Was damask work, and deep inlay
Of braided blooms.