The word "doit" is spelled as d-o-i-t. Its IPA phonetic transcription is /dɔɪt/. The word "doit" is a noun which means a small Dutch coin. In the 17th century, this coin was often used in England in card games. The word "doit" is also used in contemporary language to refer to a very small amount of money. The spelling of the word "doit" is easy to remember since it consists of two simple syllables and follows the English language pronunciation rules.
Doit is a noun that refers to a small Dutch coin, also known as a duit. Originally introduced in the 16th century, it was made from copper or other base metals. The term "doit" was adopted from the Dutch language, where it means "deed" or "act." The coin's small size and low value made it appropriate for transactions of modest amounts, such as purchasing smaller items or as change.
In a broader sense, the word "doit" can also be used idiomatically to describe a small amount of money or a negligible sum. It signifies an insignificant or trifling value, implying that something is of little consequence or worth. Its colloquial usage often conveys a sense of derision or dismissiveness.
The term "doit" also holds historical significance as it appears in various literary works, including plays by William Shakespeare, further emphasizing its archaic nature. Although no longer in circulation and largely forgotten in modern times, the concept of a "doit" persists as a symbol of a minute or trivial monetary value, highlighted in expressions such as "it's not worth a doit."
Overall, doit is a term that encompasses the specific Dutch coin of small denomination, as well as serving as a metaphor for insignificance or paltriness in a more general context.
A Dutch or French coin, value half a farthing; an anc. Scotch coin, value 1-12th of a penny sterling-hence the phrase, “I care not a doit," changed into, "I care not a farthing;" a trifle.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "doit" has an interesting etymology. It originated from the Middle English word "doiten" or "doyten", which meant "to be foolish" or "to play the fool". The term was used to describe someone who was silly, foolish, or incompetent.
The word itself evolved from the Old English word "dȳtan" or "dȳtan", which had a similar meaning of being foolish or silly. This Old English word has Germanic roots, finding its origins in the Proto-Germanic word "dūtijaną", meaning "to be or become dull" or "to be or become foolish".
Over time, the meaning of "doit" slightly shifted, and by the 16th century, it came to refer to a small Dutch copper coin.