Pushpin: meaning, definitions and examples

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pushpin

 

[ˈpʊʃˌpɪn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

office supplies

A pushpin is a short pin with a rounded head used for fastening things to a bulletin board or wall.

Synonyms

drawing pin, thumbtack.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pushpin

Commonly used in American English, 'pushpin' refers to a small pin used for fastening papers to a bulletin board or wall.

  • I attached the note to the corkboard with a pushpin.
thumbtack

Commonly used in American English as well, 'thumbtack' describes a small, flat-headed pin used for attaching papers to a board. It is interchangeable with 'pushpin'.

  • He secured the map to the wall using several thumbtacks.
drawing pin

This term is typically used in British English, referring to a small pin with a broad, flat head, used for fastening papers to a board or wall.

  • She used a drawing pin to put up the poster in her room.

Examples of usage

  • Please use a pushpin to hang up the poster on the bulletin board.
  • I need a pushpin to attach this note to the wall.
Context #2 | Noun

digital communication

In digital communication, a pushpin is a feature that allows users to mark a specific location on a map.

Synonyms

marker, pin.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pushpin

Commonly used in offices and classrooms to attach papers to bulletin boards, cork boards, or other surfaces where documents or notes need to be temporarily displayed.

  • I used a pushpin to attach the flyer to the notice board.
  • She added more pushpins to her cork board to hold all her photos.
marker

Used for writing or drawing on surfaces such as whiteboards, posters, or charts. Markers usually have a felt tip and are available in various colors.

  • The teacher grabbed a marker to write on the whiteboard.
  • He highlighted the important dates on the calendar with a red marker.
pin

A broader term that can refer to any small, pointed object used to fasten or attach one item to another. It can be used for sewing, pinning notes, or securing clothing.

  • She used a pin to keep the fabric in place while sewing.
  • I secured the badge to my shirt with a pin.

Examples of usage

  • You can use the pushpin feature to save your favorite locations on the map.
  • Click on the pushpin icon to mark the meeting spot on the map.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'pushpin' first appeared in the English language in the early 20th century.
  • It combines 'push,' meaning to apply force, and 'pin,' a small thin piece of metal.
  • The use of 'push' signifies its function of being pushed into a surface.

History

  • Pushpins have evolved from simple wooden dowels used in ancient times to modern plastic designs.
  • They were created to provide a more efficient way to display papers compared to nails or tacks.
  • In the 1930s, pushpins became a common office supply as businesses started using bulletin boards.

Art and Crafting

  • Artists and crafters often use pushpins to create colorful bulletin boards for inspiration and organization.
  • Pushpins come in various colors and designs, adding a decorative element to functional use.
  • They can be used in DIY projects, such as creating wall art by arranging photos or notes.

Psychology of Organization

  • Using pushpins can enhance visual memory. The act of pinning up reminders helps reinforce memory retention.
  • The practice of organizing thoughts visually can reduce stress and improve focus.
  • Colorful pushpins may inspire creativity and enjoyment in organizing personal spaces.

Pop Culture

  • Pushpins have made their way into popular media, symbolizing the organization or chaos of modern life in shows and movies.
  • They are often used in visual narratives to depict the layering of ideas or events, like on a detective's board.
  • The image of a pushpin is frequently associated with reminders, making it a relatable symbol of daily tasks.

Translations

Translations of the word "pushpin" in other languages:

🇵🇹 alfinete

🇮🇳 पुशपिन

🇩🇪 Reißzwecke

🇮🇩 paku payung

🇺🇦 канцелярська кнопка

🇵🇱 pinezka

🇯🇵 押しピン

🇫🇷 punaise

🇪🇸 chincheta

🇹🇷 raptiye

🇰🇷 압정

🇸🇦 دبوس تثبيت

🇨🇿 připínáček

🇸🇰 špendlík

🇨🇳 图钉

🇸🇮 risalni žebljiček

🇮🇸 teiknibóla

🇰🇿 кеңселік түйреуіш

🇬🇪 სამაგრი

🇦🇿 itələyici sancaq

🇲🇽 chincheta