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Scintilla Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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scintilla

[sɪnˈtɪlə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

small amount

A scintilla refers to a tiny, barely perceptible amount or trace of something. The term is often used in legal or literary contexts to indicate something very small or insignificant.

Synonyms

bit, fragment, smidgen, trace.

Examples of usage

  • There wasn't a scintilla of doubt in her mind.
  • He knew not a scintilla of the truth.
  • The report contained not a scintilla of evidence.
  • Even a scintilla of kindness can make a difference.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • The word appears in classic literature to describe a hint or trace of passion or emotion, emphasizing its subtlety.
  • Famous works often use 'scintilla' to convey that even a small amount can have immense significance, as in love or hope.

Science

  • In physics, 'scintilla' relates to the small bursts of light produced when a particle interacts with a medium, such as scintillation detectors used in radiation detection.
  • Astronomy sometimes refers to a scintilla when describing faint stars or starlight that seems to twinkle.

Pop Culture

  • 'Scintillate' is a playful variation leading to 'scintilla', often used in poetry and song lyrics to evoke a sense of beauty and delicacy.
  • In popular sayings, having a scintilla of hope can imply that even a minimal amount can be powerful and transformative.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers use the term to discuss the idea that even the smallest amount of knowledge or understanding can hold significant value.
  • In debates, one might say a scintilla of evidence can sometimes be enough to sway an argument.

Origin of 'scintilla'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'scintilla' comes from Latin, meaning 'spark' or 'sparkle'.
  • It has been used in the English language since the early 17th century, mostly to refer to a small part of something.
  • In the scientific context, it often describes the faintest light or signal.

The word 'scintilla' comes from Latin, where it means 'spark' or 'glimmer'. It is derived from the Latin word 'scintillare', which means 'to sparkle' or 'to shine'. This origin reflects the concept of something minimal—just a tiny spark among a much larger context. The term has been adopted into English usage primarily to emphasize the idea of a very small amount. It has appeared in English literature since the 17th century, often used to convey a sense of something fleeting or elusive. Over time, 'scintilla' has also found its place in legal vernacular, where it denotes the smallest degree of something required to meet a certain threshold or standard.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,624 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.