Inkholder: meaning, definitions and examples

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inkholder

 

[ ˈɪŋkˌhoʊldər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

writing tools

An inkholder is a small container or holder designed to hold ink for writing or drawing. It typically has a reservoir for the ink and a nib or point for applying the ink to paper.

Synonyms

ink container, inkpot, inkwell

Examples of usage

  • She dipped her pen into the inkholder to write a letter.
  • The artist used an inkholder to create intricate drawings.
  • He carefully cleaned the inkholder after using it.

Etymology

The term 'inkholder' can be traced back to Middle English, where it referred to any vessel used for holding ink. The word combines 'ink', which has Germanic roots stemming from the word 'inc', meaning black or dark, and 'holder', deriving from the Old English 'healdan', which means to hold or contain. With the evolution of writing instruments in the 15th and 16th centuries, inkholders became essential tools for writers and artists, providing a more efficient means to store and access ink. Throughout history, inkholders have varied in design, from simple bowls to ornate, decorative containers, reflecting the craftsmanship of different eras.