pencil
|pen/cil|
A1
/ˈpɛn.səl/
writing tool
Etymology
Etymology Information
'pencil' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'pincel,' where 'pincellus' meant 'little tail' in Latin.
Historical Evolution
'pincellus' transformed into the Old French word 'pincel,' and eventually became the modern English word 'pencil' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'a small brush for painting,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a writing instrument.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a slender, cylindrical instrument used for writing or drawing, typically consisting of a thin stick of graphite or a similar substance enclosed in a long thin piece of wood or fixed in a metal or plastic case.
She sketched the landscape with a pencil.
Synonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35