Teeth Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
teeth
[tiหฮธ ]
Definitions
in the mouth
Teeth are hard, white structures found in the mouth that are used for biting and chewing food. They are made of enamel, dentin, and pulp. The average adult human has 32 teeth, including incisors, canines, premolars, and molars.
Synonyms
canines, incisors, molars, premolars.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| teeth |
A general term for the hard, bony structures in the mouth used for biting and chewing.
|
| molars |
Large, flat teeth at the back of the mouth that are used for grinding food.
|
| incisors |
The front teeth that are used for cutting food. They are flat and sharp-edged.
|
| canines |
Teeth that are pointed and used for tearing food. They are located next to the incisors.
|
| premolars |
Teeth located between the canines and molars that help in crushing and tearing food.
|
Examples of usage
- The dentist examined my teeth for cavities.
- I need to brush my teeth after every meal.
- She flashed her bright white teeth in a smile.
gear mechanism
Teeth can also refer to the small, pointed parts on a gear mechanism that mesh with another gear to transmit motion. The number of teeth on a gear determines its speed and torque.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| teeth |
Used primarily to refer to the structures in the mouth used for biting and chewing. Can also be used metaphorically to describe the cutting parts of tools or machinery.
|
| cogs |
Refers to the individual teeth or projections on a wheel or gear that engage with other parts to transmit motion. Can also be used metaphorically to describe parts of a larger mechanism or system, often implying a small but essential role.
|
| sprockets |
Usually refers to the toothed wheels in machinery, especially in bicycles and mechanical systems, that engage with a chain or track to transfer motion. Generally used in a technical or mechanical context.
|
| gear teeth |
Specifically refers to the individual teeth on the edge of a gear that interlock with other gear teeth to transmit motion and force.
|
Examples of usage
- The gear has 24 teeth.
- The teeth of the two gears interlock smoothly.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Anatomy
- Humans typically have 20 baby teeth and 32 adult teeth, which include incisors, canines, premolars, and molars.
- Adult teeth start coming in around age 6, while baby teeth usually begin to appear at around 6 months.
- Teeth are made up of enamel, dentin, cementum, and pulp โ the hardest structure being enamel, which protects against decay.
Cultural Significance
- In some cultures, losing a baby tooth is celebrated with rituals, like burying it for good luck or throwing it on the roof for a wish.
- The 'tooth fairy' is a common belief in many Western cultures, where children receive money or gifts in exchange for their lost teeth.
- Teeth have often been associated with beauty and health, symbolizing prosperity and good living in many traditions.
Health and Care
- Regular brushing and flossing help prevent cavities and maintain healthy gums, which are crucial for overall health.
- Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic diseases in children, highlighting the importance of dental hygiene from a young age.
- Sugary snacks and drinks can lead to dental problems, emphasizing the need for a balanced diet for strong teeth.
Science
- Each tooth has its unique shape and function โ for example, molars are flat for grinding, while canines are pointed for tearing.
- In some animals, teeth can continue to grow throughout their lives, such as in rodents, who need to gnaw to wear them down.
- The study of teeth can reveal important health information about a person, including diet and diseases, known as dental anthropology.
Origin of 'teeth'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'teeth' comes from Old English 'tฤซรพ', which is related to similar words in other Germanic languages.
- In Latin, the word for tooth is 'dens', which is the root of words like 'dental' in English.
- The plural form 'teeth' is irregular, following an ancient pattern seen in other words like 'feet' or 'geese'.
The word 'teeth' has Old English origins, with roots in the Proto-Germanic word 'tanth', which is related to the Latin 'dent-' and the Greek 'odous'. The concept of teeth has been essential for human survival and evolution, as they are crucial for chewing food and maintaining overall health.
See also: tooth.