How Do You Spell HAIRBREADTH?

Pronunciation: [hˈe͡əbɹɛdθ] (IPA)

Hairbreadth is a tricky word to spell. The pronunciation is /ˈhɛrbrɛdθ/, which may be confusing because the "b" and "d" are pronounced together as a voiced dental fricative. Additionally, the "t" is silent. To remember the correct spelling, try to break down the word into smaller parts: "hair" and "breadth." Or, associate the word with phrases like "a hair's breadth," indicating a very small distance. By practicing and memorizing this spelling, you'll be one step closer to mastering the intricacies of the English language.

HAIRBREADTH Meaning and Definition

1. Hairbreadth, as a noun, refers to a very narrow or small unit of measurement, often specifically related to width. It can indicate a distance, interval, or measurement that is extremely close in magnitude or width, typically just a hair's breadth. The term may be used figuratively to describe a very small or slight margin of difference between two things. For example, it can be employed to convey the narrowness of an escape from danger, indicating how close someone came to disaster or harm.

   Furthermore, hairbreadth can also be used as an adjective to describe something extremely narrow or minute. It characterizes objects or situations that have a barely perceptible width or distance. By extension, it can refer to any event or action that is highly risky, perilous, or requires great precision due to the minimal margin for error. This term often carries connotations of thrill and urgency, as it is often associated with tense and daring feats, where even the slightest miscalculation can lead to disastrous consequences. Overall, hairbreadth is a versatile term that encapsulates the idea of something being incredibly narrow, either in a literal or figurative sense, emphasizing the importance of precision and careful action.

Common Misspellings for HAIRBREADTH

• gairbreadth
• bairbreadth
• nairbreadth
• jairbreadth
• uairbreadth
• yairbreadth
• hzirbreadth
• hsirbreadth
• hwirbreadth
• hqirbreadth
• haurbreadth
• hajrbreadth
• hakrbreadth
• haorbreadth
• ha9rbreadth
• ha8rbreadth
• haiebreadth
• haidbreadth
• haifbreadth
• hairebreadth
• hairbredth
• hairbreath
• hansbreadth
• hairbdreath
• hairbrath
• hairbreth
• hayrbreath
• hairbreathth

Etymology of HAIRBREADTH

The word "hairbreadth" comes from the combination of two words: "hair" and "breadth".

The term "hair" refers to the fine, thread-like growth that covers vertebrates and is typically found on the skin of mammals. It is derived from the Old English word "hǣr" which had the same meaning.

"Breadth" is a noun that denotes the distance between two points or the extent of something from side to side. It originates from the Old English word "brǣdu" with a similar meaning.

When combined, "hairbreadth" refers to a very narrow distance or a small margin, suggesting a measurement as fine as a single hair. This word has been used in idiomatic expressions to describe a narrow escape or a situation that requires careful navigation.

Similar spelling word for HAIRBREADTH

• hairbrush.