Thimbleful Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐งต
thimbleful
[หฮธษชm.bษl.fษl ]
Definition
quantity, measurement
A thimbleful is a small amount of liquid or substance that can be contained in a thimble, which is a small protective cap used for sewing. The term is often used metaphorically to indicate a very tiny quantity, particularly in reference to liquids. In everyday usage, it conveys the idea of a minuscule measurement, highlighting the limited capacity of a thimble compared to standard measurement units. It can also suggest a trivial or insignificant amount in discussions about resources or contributions.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She poured a thimbleful of milk into her tea.
- Only a thimbleful of paint was left in the can.
- The garden survived on a thimbleful of rain.
- He added a thimbleful of sugar to his coffee.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Culinary Uses
- In cooking, 'thimbleful' can refer to a small measurement of liquid ingredients, highlighting precision in recipes.
- Chefs may use a thimbleful of strong flavors, like extracts or spices, to avoid overwhelming a dish.
- It's often used informally to signify just enough of an ingredient, encouraging moderation in cooking.
Literature
- Writers sometimes use 'thimbleful' metaphorically to describe small quantities of emotions or thoughts, adding depth to their narratives.
- The term appears in poetry to illustrate scarcity, creating vivid imagery in readers' minds.
- Classic children's stories may use 'thimbleful' to convey the idea of sharing little bits of joy or happiness.
Science
- In scientific contexts, a thimbleful might refer to volumes in chemical experiments, where minute measurements are crucial.
- The concept also applies in environmental science when discussing the tiny quantities of pollutants in large bodies of water.
- Understanding volumes like a thimbleful can help students grasp fundamental principles of measurement in physics.
Cultural References
- In British culture, 'thimbleful' can denote a short drink, often referred to humorously in pubs.
- The amount is sometimes used in proverbs or sayings, emphasizing modesty or simplicity in life.
- Artists might use 'thimbleful' to critique societal expectations, suggesting we should aim for small, meaningful experiences.
Origin of 'thimbleful'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'thimble' comes from the Old English word 'thimel', meaning to protect your finger while sewing.
- The suffix '-ful' indicates quantity, so 'thimbleful' literally means the amount a thimble can hold.
- This term has been used in English since at least the 16th century, showing how language evolves over time.
The word 'thimbleful' is derived from the noun 'thimble', which comes from the Old English 'thymel', meaning 'to thumb', as the thimble was used to protect the thumb while sewing. The suffix 'ful' implies 'full of' or 'having the quality of', thus forming a term that literally means 'full of thimble'. As sewing became a common household activity, the term gained usage in the English language, reflecting the diminutive and specific nature of the measurement. The concept of a 'thimbleful' points to both a practical use in sewing and a figurative sense in describing small quantities. Over time, it has evolved into a poetic way to express scarcity or the minimal amount of something, often coloring the language with vivid imagery of smallness and precision.