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Dipstick: meaning, definitions and examples

๐Ÿ›ข๏ธ
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dipstick

 

[หˆdษชpstษชk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

measurement tool

A dipstick is a long, narrow tool used to measure the level of a liquid in a container, commonly used in automotive contexts to check engine oil levels. It can also refer to a stick that dips into a container to gauge the amount of liquid it holds. Dipsticks are essential for maintaining proper fluid levels in engines to ensure optimal performance. They can be made of metal or plastic and often have measuring markings on them.

Synonyms

gauge, indicator, measuring stick.

Examples of usage

  • Use the dipstick to check the oil level.
  • He pulled out the dipstick to see how much gas was left.
  • The technician verified the fluid levels using a dipstick.
Context #2 | Noun

informal insult

Informally, the term "dipstick" may be used as a derogatory slang term to describe someone who is seen as foolish or incompetent. It conveys a sense of disdain for someone's lack of intelligence or common sense. The use of the term in this context is usually light-hearted or joking but can also be more serious depending on the situation.

Synonyms

fool, idiot, simpleton.

Examples of usage

  • Stop acting like a dipstick and think things through.
  • He called him a dipstick for forgetting the meeting.
  • Don't be such a dipstick and make that mistake.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'dipstick' comes from 'dip,' meaning to lower something into a liquid, and 'stick,' referring to the long, thin shape of the tool.
  • It has been used since the mid-20th century, predominantly in automotive language, linking it intimately with car maintenance.
  • The earliest known usage in print dates back to around the 1950s, primarily in the United States.

Automotive

  • A dipstick is crucial for car maintenance, helping drivers know if they need to add more oil to keep the engine running smoothly.
  • Some modern vehicles have electronic sensors that replace the traditional dipstick, offering digital readings instead.
  • Using a dipstick correctly involves pulling it out, wiping it clean, and then reinserting it to check the oil level accurately.

Cultural Reference

  • In informal contexts, calling someone a 'dipstick' can imply that they are silly or foolish, demonstrating the word's versatility in language.
  • In various shows and movies, 'dipstick' has been used in comedic scenarios to highlight characters' ignorance or mistakes.
  • The term features in automotive culture beyond mechanics, symbolizing a hands-on, DIY approach to vehicle care.

Science

  • Dipsticks are also used in laboratories to test liquid samples for various properties, such as pH levels or chemical composition.
  • The principle of using a stick to measure fluid levels can be applied in different fields, including ecology for water quality assessment.
  • Different industries utilize dipstick-like tools for measuring liquids, ranging from food processing to pharmaceuticals, showcasing their versatility.

Psychology

  • Using tools like dipsticks can reduce anxiety in car maintenance, as they provide clear, tangible data for the vehicle's needs.
  • The act of manually checking fluid levels can promote mindfulness, encouraging a more engaged approach to vehicle care.
  • Understanding how to use tools effectively can empower individuals, enhancing their confidence in managing technical tasks.

Translations

Translations of the word "dipstick" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น vara de mediรงรฃo

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคกเคฟเคชเคธเฅเคŸเคฟเค•

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช ร–lmesstab

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ batang pengukur

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ั‰ัƒะฟ

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ bagnet

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ใƒ‡ใ‚ฃใƒƒใƒ—ใ‚นใƒ†ใ‚ฃใƒƒใ‚ฏ

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท tige de mesure

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ varilla

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท dipstick

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ๋”ฅ์Šคํ‹ฑ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ู…ู‚ูŠุงุณ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ mฤ›rnรก tyฤ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ meracia tyฤ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๆฒนๅฐบ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ merilna palica

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ mรฆlisdรฝfa

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ำฉะปัˆะตัƒัˆั–

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ›แƒ–แƒแƒ›แƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ รถlรงรผ รงubuฤŸu

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ varilla

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,016 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.