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Domino Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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domino

[หˆdษ’mษชnษ™สŠ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

game piece

A small rectangular block used in playing the game of dominoes. Each block has a line dividing its face into two square ends, each end being marked with a number of spots or is blank.

Synonyms

block, game piece, tile.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
domino

Best used when specifically referring to a small rectangular piece used in the game of dominoes.

  • He set up the last domino and then knocked them all down
  • They were playing a game of dominoes last night
game piece

Used when discussing any piece used in any game, not limited to dominoes. It's a broad term and applies to board games as well.

  • She lost one of the game pieces for her Monopoly set
  • Each player selects a game piece to start
tile

Usually used when referring to flat, thin pieces, often used in games or in construction, such as floor or wall tiles. Context can range from gaming to building.

  • He picked up a letter tile and placed it on the Scrabble board
  • The kitchen floor is made of ceramic tiles
block

Used more generally to refer to any solid piece, especially when the shape is not particularly significant. Can be used in various contexts, from construction to toys.

  • The kids love playing with wooden blocks
  • There is a large concrete block in front of the building

Examples of usage

  • Let's play dominoes with these colorful pieces!
  • She placed the domino on the table to start the game.
Context #2 | Noun

mathematics

A shape resembling a domino piece, especially one of a pair of black and white cubes used in gaming or divination.

Synonyms

cube, rectangular block, shape.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
domino

Typically used to refer to a piece in a game played with rectangular blocks that have spots on them indicating numbers. It is also used metaphorically to describe a sequence of events that trigger each other.

  • We spent the evening playing dominoes.
  • The project failed due to a domino effect of small mistakes.
shape

A general term used to describe the form of an object, whether itโ€™s geometric like squares and circles, or irregular shapes. Suitable for artistic contexts and general descriptions.

  • She drew an unusual shape on the paper.
  • What shape is this box?
cube

Refers to a three-dimensional geometric shape with six equal square faces. Used in math, science, and everyday life, especially when describing objects like dice or storage boxes.

  • The magician pulled a cube out of his hat.
  • She bought a cube storage unit for her books.
rectangular block

Describes a solid object that has six rectangular faces. Commonly used in construction, toy descriptions, and geometry.

  • The children built a tower with rectangular blocks.
  • Each rectangular block in the wall was carefully placed.

Examples of usage

  • The mathematician used dominoes to explain the concept of permutations.
  • She consulted the dominoes for guidance on her future.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The first dominoes are believed to have been made in China around 1120 AD, believed to be a small version of the dice.
  • They spread to other parts of the world through traders and explorers, particularly to Europe in the 18th century.
  • The name 'domino' may derive from a type of hood worn by priests, highlighting its historical ties to culture and play.

Mathematics and Strategy

  • Dominoes can be seen as a tool for teaching math concepts like addition and multiplication through gameplay.
  • Different games can involve strategic thinking, making players anticipate opponents' moves much like in chess.
  • There are over 300 different known domino games, each with unique rules, showcasing the versatility of these simple tiles.

Pop Culture

  • Dominoes appeared in various films, often symbolizing a chain reaction in both comedic and dramatic contexts.
  • The iconic domino effect, where one action leads to a series of similar events, is widely referenced in discussions about consequences.
  • In music, several songs have incorporated domino themes or imagery, highlighting its cultural impact.

Art and Engineering

  • Artists have created stunning installations using dominoes to demonstrate concepts of physics and motion.
  • Domino rally events, where players set up elaborate designs, can be both an art form and a competition.
  • Engineering principles can be observed in domino setups, illustrating concepts such as gravity, balance, and momentum.

Psychology

  • Engaging in games like dominoes promotes social interaction and can improve cognitive skills such as problem-solving.
  • The act of setting up dominoes and watching them fall engages a sense of anticipation and reward in people.
  • Playing games together, including dominoes, fosters teamwork and communication among players of all ages.

Origin of 'domino'

The word 'domino' originated from the Latin word 'dominus', meaning 'master' or 'lord'. It was first used in the 18th century to refer to a hood worn by priests during winter. The connection to the game of dominoes came later, as the game pieces were often black and white, resembling the priest's hood. Over time, the term expanded to include the game itself and other uses.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,930, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.