Scintillae: meaning, definitions and examples

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scintillae

 

[ sɪnˈtɪli ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

a tiny amount

The term 'scintillae' refers to very small particles or traces of something. It is often used in a figurative sense to denote a minor, yet notable quantity of an object or element. In legal and scientific contexts, scintillae can indicate the smallest amount of evidence required to support a claim or argument. The word underscores the importance of even the tiniest elements in broader discussions or considerations.

Synonyms

bit, hint, speck, trace.

Examples of usage

  • There was a scintillae of doubt about his alibi.
  • Only a scintillae of hope remained after the disaster.
  • The scintillae of evidence presented were enough to reopen the case.
  • She felt a scintillae of fear as she entered the dark room.

Translations

Translations of the word "scintillae" in other languages:

🇵🇹 escintilas

🇮🇳 चिंगारी

🇩🇪 Funken

🇮🇩 percikan

🇺🇦 іскри

🇵🇱 iskierki

🇯🇵 火花

🇫🇷 scintilles

🇪🇸 chispa

🇹🇷 kıvılcım

🇰🇷 불꽃

🇸🇦 شرارة

🇨🇿 iskří

🇸🇰 iskričky

🇨🇳 火花

🇸🇮 iskrice

🇮🇸 skínandi

🇰🇿 бұршақ

🇬🇪 ცეცხლი

🇦🇿 çəhrayı

🇲🇽 chispa

Etymology

The word 'scintillae' originates from Latin, where 'scintilla' means 'spark' or 'glimmer'. This Latin term itself is derived from 'scintillare', meaning 'to sparkle' or 'to twinkle'. The diminutive form suggests something small and ephemeral, contributing to its use in various contexts to denote tiny fragments or amounts. The transition into English usage reflects both the literal sense of smallness and the metaphorical application relating to evidence or emotions. The term has maintained its connection to light, often used to convey not just size but also the significance of tiny elements in a larger picture. The historical journey of the word through language showcases how expressions of light and minor quantities interconnect.