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Trivia Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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trivia

[หˆtrษชviษ™ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

general knowledge

Trivia refers to bits of information that are interesting, obscure, or little-known. These facts often pertain to various subjects such as history, pop culture, science, and more. Trivia is frequently used in games and quizzes where participants test their recall of these facts. It's a popular activity in social gatherings and can foster a competitive spirit among friends. Trivia often highlights the quirky and unexpected aspects of knowledge.

Synonyms

details, facts, information, insights.

Examples of usage

  • I love sharing trivia about movies.
  • Did you know this trivia about ancient civilizations?
  • We played a trivia game at the party last night.
  • Thereโ€™s a trivia night at the local bar every Thursday.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word 'trivia' comes from the Latin 'trivium', which means 'three roads', symbolizing topics that were considered common knowledge.
  • In ancient Rome, trivia referred to basic education subjects: grammar, rhetoric, and logic, marking the beginnings of learning.

Pop Culture

  • Trivia games gained popularity in the 20th century, especially with the launch of 'Trivial Pursuit' in 1981, which became a classic board game.
  • 'Jeopardy!' is a famous TV quiz show where contestants answer trivia questions in various categories.

Psychology

  • Answering trivia questions can boost memory and cognitive functioning, as it engages the brain in recalling fun facts.
  • Studies show people enjoy trivia because it provides a sense of accomplishment and social interaction when playing with friends.

Science

  • In biology, trivia refers to small details or facts about living organisms that can be fascinating yet overlooked.
  • Trivia nights at science museums encourage learning in an entertaining way, showcasing facts that spark curiosity.

Literature

  • Many novels and films incorporate trivia as a way to develop characters and create rich backgrounds and settings.
  • Famous literary characters, like Sherlock Holmes, often appear in trivia due to their unique expertise and knowledge.

Origin of 'trivia'

The word 'trivia' originates from the Latin term 'trivium,' which means 'the place where three roads meet.' In ancient Roman education, the trivium was the foundational study of grammar, rhetoric, and logic. Over time, the term evolved in the 15th century to refer to 'commonplace' or 'ordinary' information. By the 19th century, 'trivia' had taken on a connotation of 'unimportant' or 'insignificant' facts. This shift reflects society's growing fascination with ephemeral or quirky knowledge, leading to the popularization of trivia games and competitions in the 20th century. Today, trivia is celebrated in various formats, from books and board games to television shows and online quizzes, showcasing humanity's endless curiosity and love for learning.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,560, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.