DIME Meaning and
Definition
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A dime, in its common usage, is a noun that refers to a unit of currency in the United States. Specifically, it is a coin that holds a value of 10 cents. Dimes are typically made of a silver-colored alloy, specifically a blend of nickel and copper, and are recognized by their small, circular shape.
The term "dime" can also be used metaphorically to describe something small or insignificant due to its size or value. For instance, one might say a task or a decision is not worth a dime, meaning it lacks importance or significance. Similarly, the phrase "stop on a dime" is commonly used to describe someone's ability to stop suddenly or change direction quickly, emphasizing their agility or nimbleness.
Additionally, the word "dime" can be employed in idiomatic expressions. Among them, there is the well-known phrase "a dime a dozen," which implies something is in such abundance or widespread availability that it holds little value or uniqueness. Another idiomatic usage refers to someone who is considered attractive by saying they are a "perfect ten," drawing a parallel between their appeal and the highest value assigned to a dime.
Overall, whether in its literal sense as a currency denomination or through metaphorical and idiomatic applications, the term "dime" carries multiple connotations related to value, size, and significance.
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• In U.S., a silver coin equal to one-tenth of a dollar, or ten cents.
• Tenth; a tenth part; tithe.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for DIME *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for DIME
Etymology of DIME
The word dime originated in the United States and its etymology can be traced back to the Latin word decimus, meaning tenth. In this context, dime is derived from the word disme, an archaic spelling for dime used during the late 18th century. This term was chosen since the dime was originally established as the tenth part of a dollar, thus representing the value of 10 cents. Over time, disme evolved into the modern spelling of dime.
Idioms with the word DIME
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nickel-and-dime
The idiom "nickel-and-dime" refers to a situation where someone is excessively concerned with small amounts of money or is focused on trivial matters. It can also describe a situation where someone engages in cheap or unimportant activities, usually to the detriment of more significant or valuable pursuits.
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drop the (or a) dime on
The idiom "drop the (or a) dime on" means to inform or provide information about another person's wrongdoing or illegal activities to the authorities, often in exchange for some benefit or reward. It originated from the use of payphones, where dropping a dime (a ten-cent coin) into the payphone would initiate a call to the police or relevant authorities to report the crime.
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dime-dropper
The idiom "dime-dropper" refers to a person who informs or betrays someone's secrets or illegal activities to authorities or others. It typically describes an individual who reveals information, particularly regarding criminal or illicit matters, either willingly or under pressure.
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thin dime
The idiom "thin dime" refers to a small amount of money. It is often used to emphasize that someone is unwilling to spend even a small amount or to pay for something.
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drop the dime on
The idiom "drop the dime on" means to inform or betray someone to an authority or law enforcement agency, typically by providing crucial information or evidence. It originated from the concept of paying a ten-cent coin, a dime, to make a phone call and inform the authorities about criminal activities or the whereabouts of a suspect. It implies reporting someone's wrongdoings or sharing confidential information with the intention of causing harm or legal consequences for the person being reported.
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not be worth a dime
The idiom "not be worth a dime" means that something or someone has little or no value or worth. It implies that the object or person being referred to is considered unimportant, useless, or of low quality.
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stop on a dime
The idiom "stop on a dime" means to come to a sudden and immediate stop or halt, especially while moving quickly or with great momentum. It implies the ability to change direction or cease motion swiftly and precisely, as if one could stop or turn effortlessly on a very small coin (a dime).
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dime store
The idiom "dime store" refers to a term commonly used in the past to describe a small retail store that sold inexpensive, low-quality goods. It implies a place where inexpensive items of dubious quality or value can be found.
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be two/ten a penny, at be a dime a dozen
The idiom "be two/ten a penny" or "be a dime a dozen" means that something or someone is very common, easily found, or readily available. It implies that the item or individual in question lacks uniqueness or value due to its abundance. It suggests that there is an abundance of similar alternatives and that it holds little significance or rarity.
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be a dime a dozen, at be two/ten a penny
The idiom "be a dime a dozen" or "be two/ten a penny" means that something or someone is very common, easily found, or highly abundant. It implies that the object or person is not unique or valuable but rather plentiful and ordinary.
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a dime a dozen
The idiom "a dime a dozen" means that something is common, easily obtained, or of little value due to its abundance or lack of uniqueness.
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be worth a dime
The idiom "be worth a dime" is typically used to describe someone, something, or a situation that has little or no value or worth. It implies that the person or thing in question is insignificant or unimportant.
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nickel and dime sb
The idiom "nickel and dime" someone refers to taking small amounts of money from someone repeatedly or continuously, often in an unfair or excessive manner. It implies treating someone unfairly or exploitatively by continually charging or demanding small amounts of money, which can add up and cause frustration or inconvenience to the person being nickelled and dimed.
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be not worth a dime
The idiom "be not worth a dime" means that something or someone is of little or no value or importance, lacking worth or significance. This phrase can be used to express the insignificance or low quality of something or someone.
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be a dime a dozen
The idiom "be a dime a dozen" means that something or someone is very common, abundant, or easily found and therefore not valuable or special.
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dime a dozen
The idiom "dime a dozen" means that something is very common or easily available, often with little value or significance. It implies that the item or thing being referred to is not rare or unique and can be found in large quantities or at a low cost.
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not worth a dime
The idiom "not worth a dime" means that something or someone has little or no value, worth, or importance. It implies that the thing or person being referred to is considered utterly worthless or insignificant.
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drop a dime
The idiom "drop a dime" refers to making a phone call, usually to inform or report something to someone, typically a higher authority or law enforcement. The phrase originated from the practice of using a payphone and requiring only a dime to make a call.
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nickel and dime someone
The idiom "nickel and dime someone" refers to a situation where someone is being charged small amounts of money multiple times, ultimately resulting in a significant sum. It can also imply that a person is being treated unfairly or taken advantage of by continuously being charged for minor or insignificant expenses.
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turn on a dime
The idiom "turn on a dime" means the ability to change direction extremely quickly and effortlessly, typically referring to a physical movement or a change in decision or behavior. It suggests agility, adaptability, and swift changes, often with little warning or hesitation.
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get off the dime
The idiom "get off the dime" means to take action or make a decision after hesitating or being indecisive for a period of time. It refers to overcoming one's inertia or hesitation to move forward and start taking action.
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nickel and dime (someone) to death
The idiom "nickel and dime (someone) to death" refers to a situation where someone is being excessively charged or overcharged for small and trivial things, leading to a significant financial burden or annoyance over time. It implies that the individual or entity responsible for the charges is taking advantage of the person's vulnerability or inability to object to the constant accumulation of small fees or expenses.
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nickel and dime (one)
The idiom "nickel and dime (one)" refers to the act of repeatedly charging small amounts that accumulate over time, resulting in significant costs or financial strain for someone. It implies the practice of consistently seeking small profits or gains at the expense of the other person.
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on a dime
The idiom "on a dime" means to be able to stop, change direction, or act suddenly and precisely with very little space or time. It refers to the ability to maneuver or make a decision swiftly and accurately, often in a challenging or unexpected situation. It implies being extremely agile, adaptable, or responsive.
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yankee dime
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dime's worth of difference
The phrase "dime's worth of difference" is an expression that indicates a very small or insignificant amount of distinction between two options, choices, or situations. It is often used to emphasize that there is little to no meaningful discrepancy between the two options being considered.
Similar spelling words for DIME
- Dian,
- diehm,
- lime,
- dim,
- Dinh,
- dine,
- dome,
- dike,
- time,
- dims,
- Di Maio,
- DIEM,
- dionaea,
- Dion,
- dice,
- Diane,
- Dionne,
- Dianne,
- din,
- Dino,
- Dimeo,
- Dina,
- dame,
- dire,
- Dione,
- diam,
- dive,
- die.
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