Definition of eat into

The phrase "eat into" is a phrasal verb that combines the meaning of the verb "eat" with the preposition "into." The term can be traced back to the 19th century, and its origins are believed to be linked to the figurative use of the word "eat" as a verb to describe the deterioration or consumption of something - a concept that has been in use since the Middle Ages. In its literal form, "eat into" was initially used to describe the physical process by which an animal or insect consumed a portion of another entity, such as a piece of flesh or a portion of material. For instance, a termite would "eat into" a dead tree, or a worm would "eat into" an apple. Over time, the figurative use of the phrase "eat into" took hold. In its figurative form, the verb "eat" is used to describe the gradual and destructive effect that a force or influence can have on something, typically durability, resources, or time. For instance, something could "eat into" a budget, or a disease could "eat into" the population. Subsequently, the use of "eat into" grew in prominence, and it became a common expression utilized in various speech scenarios, including business, daily life, and correspondence. The term's figurative meaning has evolved to include a broad array of topics, making it a versatile phrase that can be applied to any number of situations. Its widespread usage today is a testament to the influence of English as a global language and the phrasal verbs that have developed over time.