Dint: meaning, definitions and examples

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dint

 

[ dษชnt ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

physical mark

A dint is a depression or hollow in a surface, often caused by a impact or pressure. It is commonly seen in materials like metal or a car's bodywork.

Synonyms

dent, indention, mark.

Examples of usage

  • There was a noticeable dint on the car door.
  • The hammer left a dint in the wood.
  • He accidentally created a dint in the refrigerator.
  • The dint on the table's surface made it uneven.
Context #2 | Verb

to create a mark

To dint means to make a dent or a hollow in a surface. This can occur when a hard object strikes a softer one.

Synonyms

dent, imprint, mar.

Examples of usage

  • Be careful not to dint the new car.
  • He dinted the metal sheet while working.
  • The child inadvertently dinted her toy when it fell.
  • She was worried she'd dint the furniture while cleaning.

Etymology

The word 'dint' originates from the Middle English term 'dinte', which means tooth or a mark made by a tooth. This word has Germanic roots, with similarities in Old English 'dynt' and related forms in other Germanic languages. The evolution of 'dint' reflects the change in meaning from a specific mark to a broader application in describing impressions or depressions made by impact. The word has been used since the 14th century to describe various types of indentations caused by force, which contributes significantly to our understanding of physical interactions with materials.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,999, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.