To insert or put something into or between things (e.g., inserting a card, bookmark, or tool).
本に栞を挿しておいたので、続きをすぐに読める。
I inserted a bookmark into the book, so I can continue reading immediately.
傘立てに折りたたみ傘を挿しておいた。
I put the folding umbrella into the umbrella stand.
SDカードをスロットに挿してパソコンに接続した。
I inserted the SD card into the slot and connected it to the computer.
To plant a cutting (as in taking cuttings), or to thrust/drive something like a stake into the ground.
バラの枝を挿して挿し木を作ったら、根が出てきた。
I took a rose cutting and planted it; roots have started to grow.
庭に支柱を挿して、トマトの苗を固定した。
I put stakes in the garden to support the tomato seedlings.
苗を鉢に挿して育てると簡単に増やせる種類もある。
Some species can be easily propagated by inserting cuttings into pots.
To arrange flowers — to insert flowers into a vase or arrangement (ikebana).
花瓶にバラを挿してテーブルの上を飾った。
I arranged roses in a vase to decorate the table.
生け花では、まず主となる花を中央に挿すことが多い。
In ikebana, it is common to first insert the main flower in the center.
式場の飾り花が丁寧に挿されていて、雰囲気が明るくなった。
The ceremonial venue's decorative flowers were carefully arranged, brightening the atmosphere.
To wear (a sword) by putting it into the belt — to tuck a sword or dagger into one's sash.
侍は刀を帯に挿して町を歩いた。
The samurai walked through town with his sword tucked into his sash.
祭りでは子供たちが模造刀を帯に挿して写真を撮っていた。
At the festival, children tucked toy swords into their sashes and took pictures.
時代劇では役者が刀を帯に挿す仕草がよく見られる。
In period dramas, actors are often seen tucking their swords into their sashes.
An older or literary usage meaning to shut, fasten, or lock (e.g., to fasten a gate); somewhat archaic.
古い記録によれば、夜になると門を挿して守ったとある。
According to old records, they used to fasten the gate at night for protection.