July 7, 2025 Word of the Day

 Scintilla

Scintilla

sinˈtilə

Noun

  • A tiny trace or spark of a specified quality or feeling

Example Sentences

“He thought she had left, but a scintilla of hope arose in his chest when he heard the door open.”

“There wasn’t even a scintilla of evidence to support Kim’s claims.”

“Without a scintilla of doubt, Howard accepted the proposal.”

Word Origin

Latin, late 17th century

Why this word?

The noun “scintilla” and the verb “scintillate” come from the same root. Both words originate from Latin, where the word “scintilla” translates directly to “spark” or “ember.” As a noun, “scintilla” means “a tiny speck,” but with the verb “scintillate,” a sparkling light is shining.

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