Meaning & Definition of word "Trifle"
to
Trifle
/ˈtraɪfəl/
noun:
- 1. a thing of little value or importance.
- Example: He dismissed the matter as a mere trifle.
- 2. a dessert of sponge cake, fruit, and custard.
- Example: For dessert, we had a delightful trifle made with berries and cream.
verb:
- 1. to treat (someone or something) without seriousness or respect.
- Example: You should not trifle with their emotions.
- 2. to waste time or behave frivolously.
- Example: Don’t trifle away your time; focus on your studies.
Etymology
Middle English trifel, from Anglo-French trufle, from trufler to waste time.
Common Phrases and Expressions
trifle with:
To treat something casually or without seriousness.
not to be trifled with:
To be taken seriously or treated with respect.
a mere trifle:
Something very small or insignificant.
Related Words
trivial:
Of little value or importance; insignificant.
trivially:
In a trivial manner.
Slang Meanings of trifle
Meaning: A minor issue or concern.
Example Sentence: Don't sweat the trifles.
Meaning: Something that is unimportant or not worth discussing.
Example Sentence: Let's not waste time on trifles.