Meaning & Definition of word "Dregs"
Dregs
/drɛɡz/
noun:
- 1. The remnants of a liquid left in a container, consisting of sediment or residue.
- Example: After pouring the wine, he noticed the dregs at the bottom of the bottle.
- 2. The most undesirable part of something; the least valuable or most worthless portions.
- Example: The soup was filled with dregs that had settled at the bottom of the pot.
- 3. The last remaining part or measure, often implying something of little value.
- Example: She was left with only the dregs of her savings after the unexpected expenses.
Etymology
●Middle English, from Old Norse 'dreggar', meaning 'to drag or draw.'
Common Phrases and Expressions
dregs of society:
A term used to describe the most undesirable and worthless members of society.
the dregs of a drink:
Refers to the last bits of liquid, often with undesirable contents.
the dregs of a situation:
Implying the least favorable outcomes or conditions.
Related Words
sediment:
The solid material that settles at the bottom of a liquid.
residue:
A small amount of something that remains after the main part has gone or been taken.
Slang Meanings of dregs
Meaning: People regarded as the lowest in a hierarchy.
● Example Sentence: He felt like he was dealing with the dregs of the city.
Meaning: A term used to describe leftover, unwanted decisions or situations.
● Example Sentence: She always ends up with the dregs of what no one else wants.