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Bucketful Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bucketful

[ˈbʌkɪtˌfʊl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

amount, container

A bucketful is the quantity that a bucket can hold. It is often used to describe a specific measure of liquid or loose material, emphasizing the notion of fullness.

Synonyms

container, load, volume.

Examples of usage

  • She filled the bucketful of water to water the plants.
  • He carried a bucketful of sand for the sandcastle.
  • The recipe called for a bucketful of berries.
  • They brought a bucketful of ice to the picnic.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Linguistic Origins

  • The word 'bucket' comes from Middle English 'bucket', which meant a vessel for carrying liquids.
  • The term 'full' simply means containing as much as possible, showcasing our ability to describe volume easily.

Cultural References

  • In various cultures, buckets are symbols of abundance and generosity, often used in fundraising activities (like water bucket challenges).
  • Bucketfuls of grains have been used throughout history in many societies as a measure of agricultural success.

Educational Context

  • In primary school science classes, the concept of 'bucketful' may be used to teach volume measurements and capacity, helping children understand how much liquids can fill different containers.
  • In arts and crafts, 'bucketful' can describe how many supplies (like paints or clay) one might need for a project.

Psychological Aspects

  • Psychologists often liken mental capacities to buckets, suggesting we can fill our minds with knowledge or emotions, up to a 'bucketful' – but there comes a limit to how much we can manage.
  • The 'bucket metaphor' is frequently employed in educational settings, where students are encouraged to fill 'buckets' with positive experiences or knowledge.

Environmental Context

  • Buckets are commonly used in sustainability practices, for instance in collecting rainwater for irrigation, promoting water conservation.
  • The concept of a 'bucketful' is relevant in waste management, where understanding the volume of waste can help in planning for recycling efforts.

Origin of 'bucketful'

The term 'bucketful' combines the word 'bucket', which originates from the Middle English word 'bucket' or 'bukket', referring to a container used for carrying liquids, and the suffix '-ful', which denotes a quantity or amount. The 'bucket' itself has roots in Old French 'bouquet', which meant a pail, tub, or container, often made from wood or metal. The use of 'ful' serves to convey that the object in question is filled to capacity. The term has been in use since at least the 18th century and has become a common way to express a full measure of something in everyday language.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,347, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.