Capful is a word that refers to the amount of liquid contained in a cap. It is spelled /ˈkæpfʊl/ using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable is pronounced with a short "a" sound followed by the consonant "p". The second syllable is pronounced with the short "u" sound followed by the consonant "l". The spelling of capful is phonetically straightforward as it follows the English orthography conventions, making it easy to read and understand.
A "capful" is a noun that refers to the amount of liquid that can be held in a cap or bottle cap. It is typically used to measure small quantities of liquid, such as medicine, cleaning agents, or beverages. The term "capful" denotes the volume that fills the space inside the cap, which can vary depending on the size and shape of the cap.
In a practical sense, a "capful" describes the amount of liquid that overflows a bottle cap when it is filled to its brim. It serves as a convenient and approximate measurement used to ensure consistency and accuracy in various applications. For instance, a medication label may recommend taking one or two capfuls as a dosage, indicating the appropriate volume needed to achieve the desired effect.
Whether it is to dispense a precise quantity of liquid or to estimate a small measurement, a "capful" acts as a unit of volume that is easy to visualize and employ. It allows users to pour or administer substances without the need for precise measuring instruments, simplifying the process in various daily tasks and ensuring convenience in achieving the desired outcome.
A small quantity, used by sailors when speaking of the wind.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word capful derived from the combination of two words: cap and -ful.
The word cap originated from the Old English cæppe, which referred to a covering for the head. It is believed to have stemmed from the Latin cappa, meaning hooded cloak. Over time, the term cap evolved to also represent a head-covering worn as a sign of status or a protective accessory.
The suffix -ful is derived from Old English -ful, which was used to form adjectives denoting the presence or possession of something. It was a productive suffix that added the meaning of full of or having the quantity of.
When these two elements are combined, capful is formed as a compound noun meaning the amount that a cap can hold or as much as a cap can contain.