Skindles is a plural noun that refers to hand-held spindles for spinning wool or flax. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet. The first syllable is pronounced as /skɪn/, with a short ‘i’ sound, while the second syllable is pronounced as /dəlz/, with a silent ‘e’ and a soft ‘z’ sound. The word may also be spelled as spindle, but skindles specifically denote a type of spindle used for hand-spinning.
Skindles is a term that is not found in conventional dictionaries, suggesting it may be a colloquial term or a localized expression. However, based on the context and a few potential sources, "skindles" could be defined as a type of thin, flat, wooden sticks or strips typically used for kindling fires.
This definition aligns with the word's construction, as the term "kindling" may have been abbreviated or altered over time to form "skindles". Moreover, it is common for words related to firewood, such as "kindling", to have variations or regional adaptations.
Skindles, being thin strips of wood, are likely used to aid the ignition of fires by providing easily combustible material that can quickly catch aflame. They are frequently employed to start fires in fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, or campfires, promoting the ignition of larger logs or fuel.
This term might be more prevalent or recognized within certain communities or regions where the use of fireplaces, wood stoves, or outdoor fires is common. It is possible that a synonym, such as "tinders", "tindles", or "splinters", could be used interchangeably with "skindles" depending on the specific dialect or location. However, without additional information or a reference, this definition remains speculative.