tittle etymology

Etymology:

"Tittle" is derived from the Late Latin word "titulus," meaning "superscription, title." It ultimately finds its roots in the Greek word "titlos," which referred to a short horizontal mark or dash placed over a vowel in ancient Greek manuscripts to indicate a long vowel sound.

Meaning:

In modern usage, "tittle" refers to:

  • A small mark or dot, especially one placed over a letter or word
  • A very small amount or quantity
  • A minor or insignificant detail

Origin:

The use of "tittle" in the sense of "a small mark or dot" can be traced back to the ancient practice of placing diacritical marks over letters in manuscripts. These marks were used to indicate phonetic or grammatical features of the text.

In the English language, the word "tittle" first appeared in the 14th century. It was initially used to refer to the small horizontal stroke (" tittle ") placed atop the letters "i" and "j" to distinguish them from the similar-looking letters "l" and "c."

Over time, the meaning of "tittle" expanded to include any small mark or dot, as well as metaphorical references to insignificant details or amounts. The phrase "not one jot or tittle" (from Matthew 5:18 in the Bible) has become a proverbial expression meaning "not the smallest possible amount."

tittle relate terms

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  • iota

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  • apex

    Etymology Latin apex summit top Meaning The highest point or peak The po

  • apex

    Etymology Latin apex summit top Meaning The highest point or peak The po

  • apex

    Etymology Latin apex summit top Meaning The highest point or peak The po

  • apex

    Etymology Latin apex summit top Meaning The highest point or peak The po

  • ecumenical

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