tooth(s)
|tooth|
/tuːθ/
(tooth)
hard biting structure
Etymology
'tooth' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'tōþ' (also written 'toþ'), which came from Proto-Germanic '*tanþs', where the root '*tan-' meant 'tooth' or 'bite'.
'tooth' changed from Old English 'tōþ' into Middle English forms such as 'tooth' and eventually became the modern English word 'tooth'.
Initially, it meant 'a biting or chewing organ', and over time it has retained that core meaning while also developing related figurative senses (e.g., 'force' or 'effectiveness').
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a hard, calcified structure in the mouth used for biting and chewing.
A tooth(s) can decay without regular brushing and dental care.
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Noun 2
a projection or prong on a tool or machine part (e.g., a gear, comb, or saw).
A tooth(s) on the gear was chipped and needed replacement.
Synonyms
Noun 3
effectiveness or force (often used figuratively: 'to have tooth' = to have real power or enforcement).
The new regulations have little tooth(s) without proper enforcement.
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Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/09/19 23:17