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Spittoon: meaning, definitions and examples

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spittoon

 

[ spɪˈtuːn ]

Noun
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

Translations of the word "spittoon" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cuspideira

🇮🇳 थूकने का बर्तन

🇩🇪 Spuckeimer

🇮🇩 tempat ludah

🇺🇦 спитон

🇵🇱 spluwaczka

🇯🇵 つばき

🇫🇷 crachoir

🇪🇸 escupidera

🇹🇷 tükürük kabı

🇰🇷 침통

🇸🇦 وعاء البصاق

🇨🇿 plivátko

🇸🇰 plivátko

🇨🇳 吐痰器

🇸🇮 izpljunek

🇮🇸 spýta

🇰🇿 түкірік

🇬🇪 ლუკმანი

🇦🇿 tükürük qabı

🇲🇽 escupidera

Etymology

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.