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Spittoon Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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spittoon

[spɪˈtuːn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

container, usage

A spittoon is a vessel used for spitting into. It is traditionally employed for the expectoration of saliva and substances like tobacco juice. Often found in old-fashioned saloons and smoking rooms, spittoons were necessary for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene where spitting was common. They can be made from various materials, including metal, ceramic, or glass, and often have a wide opening to facilitate use.

Synonyms

receptacle, saliva container, spit jar.

Examples of usage

  • He casually spat into the spittoon.
  • The antique shop had a beautifully crafted spittoon.
  • In the old west, spittoons were a common sight in bars.
  • She wondered why anyone would use a spittoon in modern times.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word 'spittoon' comes from the verb 'to spit,' reflecting its primary purpose.
  • In the 19th century, spittoons were common in public places as smoking and chewing tobacco became popular.
  • They were often ornately designed and made from materials like ceramic, glass, or metal, reflecting the decor of the era.

Cultural Significance

  • In the American Wild West, spittoons were a fixture in saloons, reflecting the rough and rugged lifestyle of the time.
  • Their presence in literature, especially in Western genres, evokes imagery of rowdy gatherings and old-timey roughness.
  • In some cultures, spitting is considered a sign of contempt or disrespect, adding a layer of social commentary to the use of a spittoon.

Literature

  • Mark Twain famously referenced spittoons in his novel 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer,' painting a vivid picture of the rowdy world of boys and men in small towns.
  • They appear in many works of literature as symbols of outdated habits, emphasizing changes in social norms over time.

Health and Hygiene

  • Spitting into spittoons was once seen as more hygienic than spitting onto the ground, an effort to maintain cleanliness in public spaces.
  • With growing awareness of hygiene, especially concerning diseases, the use of spittoons has declined significantly.

Modern Usage

  • Today, spittoons are rare, but may still be found in some cigar lounges or wineries for people who taste and reject wine.
  • They serve as a historical reminder of past habits and cultural practices surrounding tobacco and chewing gum.

Origin of 'spittoon'

The word 'spittoon' is derived from the verb 'spit' combined with the diminutive suffix '-oon,' which denotes something small or a container. Its usage became prominent in the 19th century, coinciding with the rise of tobacco chewing and spitting habits in social contexts like bars and saloons. Spittoons were often placed strategically in rooms for easy access, reflecting the social customs of the time. As societies evolved and hygiene practices improved, the use of spittoons declined, but they remain a historical artifact symbolizing earlier practices around tobacco consumption.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,457, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.