(inch) noun
1. A linear measure: the twelfth part of a foot or 2.54 centimeters.
2. Meteorol. The amount of snow or rain which would cover a surface to the depth of an inch.
3. Physics The unit of pressure equivalent to the weight of a fluid column, as of mercury, having a height of one inch.
4. An exceedingly small distance, amount of time, or quantity of material.
—by inches Gradually; very slowly.
—v.t. & v.i. To move by inches or small degrees. [OE ynce <L uncia the twelfth part, inch, ounce. Doublet of OUNCE.]

(inch) noun Scot.
An island: often used in combination in Scottish local names.