Toothpick Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฆท
toothpick
[หtuหฮธpษชk ]
Definition
object, dining
A toothpick is a small stick made of wood, plastic, or other materials, used for removing food from between the teeth. It is commonly used after meals to cleanse the teeth of debris. Toothpicks can also serve other purposes, such as holding together small foods or appetizers. They are often found in restaurants and at social gatherings. Many toothpicks are designed with pointed ends for easy insertion and some have decorative elements for presentation.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He used a toothpick to remove the spinach stuck in his teeth.
- The hors d'ouevres were held together with decorative toothpicks.
- After finishing the meal, she reached for a toothpick to freshen up.
- The toothpick was handy for sampling the cheese platter.
- He casually chewed on the toothpick after his meal.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'toothpick'
The word 'toothpick' has its origins in the combination of two English words: 'tooth' and 'pick'. The term 'tooth' comes from Old English 'toรพ', which refers to a small, hard structure in the jaws of mammals used for biting and chewing. 'Pick', in this context, comes from the Middle English 'pikken', meaning to pierce or to take up something small. The use of toothpicks dates back to ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians and the Romans, who created various forms of implements for dental hygiene. Toothpicks made of wood, metal, and bone have been found in archaeological digs, showing their long-standing role in human habits related to oral care. Over the centuries, the design of toothpicks evolved, leading to the modern disposable versions we often see today.