How Do You Spell HAIRSBREADTH?

Pronunciation: [hˈe͡əsbɹɛdθ] (IPA)

Hairsbreadth is a word that is pronounced as /ˈherz.bredθ/ (HAREZ-BREDTH) and refers to a very small distance or gap. The spelling of this word can be a bit tricky as it contains a combination of letters that are not commonly used, such as the "h" and "s" in "hairs" and "breadth" respectively. However, the word can still be spelled correctly with practice and understanding of English phonetics. Remembering that "breadth" ends with "-th" and "hairs" rhymes with "bears" can also aid in correct spelling.

HAIRSBREADTH Meaning and Definition

1. Hairsbreadth is a noun in the English language that refers to an extremely small or narrow distance, gap, or margin. It is commonly used to describe a distance that is barely perceivable or distinguishable. The term originated from the combination of two words, "hair" and "breadth," emphasizing the remarkably thin measurement.

   When used figuratively, hairsbreadth signifies a very small difference between two things or ideas. This can include the thinnest distinction between winning and losing a competition, passing or failing a test, or success and failure in general.

   The term can also be used to describe a state of being extremely close to danger or narrowly avoiding a potentially harmful situation. It implies a near escape or a close call, highlighting the importance of a minuscule space or time that separates safety from disaster.

   Additionally, hairsbreadth can be used metaphorically to emphasize a high level of precision or accuracy. It conveys the notion of fine-tuning and attention to detail, suggesting that even the slightest deviation can have significant consequences.

   Overall, hairsbreadth represents a minute measurement, distinction, or narrow escape. It serves as a vivid descriptive term, emphasizing the significance of the tiniest margin and the potential impact it can have on various contexts, ranging from physical measurements to critical decisions and perilous situations.

Common Misspellings for HAIRSBREADTH

• hairebreadth
• hansbreadth
• handsbredth
• heirsbreadth
• haiersbreath
• hairsbrath
• Hairsthreadth

Etymology of HAIRSBREADTH

The word "hairsbreadth" is derived from the combination of two words: "hair" and "breadth".

- "Hair" refers to a fine, thread-like strand that grows from the skin of humans and animals. It comes from the Old English word "hǣr". This word has deep Germanic roots, ultimately originating from the Proto-Indo-European word *kér- meaning "to grow".

- "Breadth" is the measure of the width or extent of something, and it comes from the Old English word "brædu". This word also has Germanic origins, tracing back to the Proto-Indo-European word *bhreu- meaning "to swell" or "to be thick".

When these two words are combined, "hairsbreadth" refers to an extremely small distance or measurement, emphasizing the idea of the narrowness of a single hair.

Similar spelling words for HAIRSBREADTH

• hair's-breadth,
• hair spray.

Plural form of HAIRSBREADTH is HAIRSBREADTHS