Meaning & Definition of word "Toothpick"
to
Toothpick
/ˈtuːθpɪk/
noun:
- 1. A small, pointed stick, typically made of wood or plastic, used for removing food particles from between the teeth.
- Example: After finishing his meal, he reached for a toothpick to clean his teeth.
- 2. A device used in cooking or food presentation, sometimes decorated or shaped as a decorative skewer.
- Example: The appetizer was served on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving.
Etymology
The word 'toothpick' is a compound of 'tooth' and 'pick', dating back to the early 17th century.
Common Phrases and Expressions
toothpick bridge:
A structure made by joining toothpicks, often used in engineering challenges.
use a toothpick:
To refer to the act of cleaning teeth or the action of fastening items together.
Related Words
floss:
A thin thread used to remove food from between teeth.
skewer:
A long pin used to hold pieces of food together.
Slang Meanings of toothpick
Meaning: A very thin person.
Example Sentence: He looks like a toothpick after his weight loss.
Meaning: A tool for small tasks or delicate work.
Example Sentence: He's using a toothpick to fix the model's parts.