Toe Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฆถ
toe
[tษส ]
Definitions
body part
The part of the foot at the front end of the toes.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| toe |
Appears to be a duplicate. See the first entry for context and examples. |
| digit |
Usually refers to any finger or toe in a more general or scientific context. Often seen in medical or anatomical discussions.
|
| phalange |
A technical term used primarily in anatomy and biology to refer to the bones in the fingers and toes. Rarely used in casual conversation.
|
Examples of usage
- He stubbed his toe on the edge of the table.
- She painted her toenails bright red.
shoe
The front part of a shoe or sock where the toes are positioned.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| toe |
This entry is the same as the first 'toe'.
|
| tip |
Refers to the pointed or very end part of something and is frequently used in descriptions or when giving advice or instructions.
|
| front |
Refers to the foremost part of something and is commonly used when talking about locations, directions, or hierarchies.
|
Examples of usage
- The shoe has a reinforced toe for added protection.
- She wore socks with reinforced toes for hiking.
touch lightly
To touch, kick, or push something with the toes.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| toe |
This refers specifically to the part of the foot and is often used in physical or anatomical contexts.
|
| tap |
This word is appropriate for a light, quick touch, often with a finger or an object. It can be used to draw attention or make a gentle noise.
|
| nudge |
This word is used when you gently push someone or something, often to gain attention or signal something subtly.
|
Examples of usage
- He toed the ball gently towards the goal.
- She toed the ground nervously during the conversation.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Anatomy
- Human feet usually have five toes on each foot, but some people may have more or less due to genetic variations.
- Toes help maintain balance and support the weight of the body when walking or standing.
- The largest toe, called the 'big toe,' plays a crucial role in pushing off the ground while walking.
Cultural Significance
- In various cultures, certain rituals involve bare feet or toes, symbolizing humility and grounding oneself.
- In some parts of the world, people practice toe painting as a form of self-expression, similar to finger nail art.
- Foot-binding, a historical practice, resulted in the deformation of toes, reflecting cultural beauty standards in certain societies.
Idioms and Expressions
- 'To put your best foot forward' means to present your best side, often referred to in relation to oneโs toes and feet.
- 'Toe the line' suggests conforming to rules or standards, linking back to standing properly on your toes.
Sports and Activity
- Athletes often pay special attention to their toes, as they play a significant role in sports performance and footwear.
- Various forms of dance, such as ballet, require great toe strength and flexibility to perform properly.
- In some martial arts, techniques like toe kicks are fundamental for balance and striking.
Health and Care
- Common foot ailments, such as bunions or gout, often affect the toes and can cause discomfort while walking.
- Regular toe stretching and exercises can enhance foot flexibility, preventing injuries in active individuals.
- Proper footwear is essential for maintaining toe health, as ill-fitting shoes can lead to foot problems.
Origin of 'toe'
The word 'toe' originated from the Old English word 'tฤ' of Germanic origin, related to Dutch 'teen' and German 'Zehe'. The use of 'toe' to refer to the digits of the foot dates back to the early 14th century. The association with the front part of a shoe or sock developed in the late 19th century.