Meaning & Definition of word "Toothpick"

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.