The word "splintery" is spelled with an "i" after the "l". This is because the "n" and "t" sounds create a syllable break within the word, making the "i" necessary to indicate a separate syllable. This is evident in the IPA phonetic transcription of the word, which shows the syllable break as 'splɪn.tə.ri'. Additionally, the "y" at the end of the word indicates that the adjective describes something having or producing splinters, such as a "splintery fence".
Splintery is an adjective describing something that is prone to splinter or break into thin, sharp pieces or splinters. It is commonly used to characterize materials or objects that possess a brittle or fragile nature, making them easily splintered. When an item or surface is splintery, it means that it could potentially break or fracture along the grain, resulting in the formation of rough, pointed fragments.
The term is often employed to describe wooden objects or surfaces that have become weathered or deteriorated over time, causing the wood to dry out and become brittle. This can lead to the development of cracks or fissures, rendering the object splintery. Likewise, when used in relation to glass or brittle plastics, splintery refers to their tendency to fracture or shatter into small, sharp pieces upon impact or pressure.
Splintery can also be used figuratively to describe abstract concepts or situations. For instance, it may refer to a relationship or argument that is fractious and prone to breaking or falling apart easily. In this sense, it implies a fragility or vulnerability that can potentially lead to discord or disintegration.
Overall, splintery is an adjective that denotes the propensity of a material, object, or situation to splinter or break into small, sharp pieces, embodying the concept of brittleness and fragility.
Consisting of or resembling splinters; having splinters or scales adhering, as in a fracture.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "splintery" is derived from the noun "splinter", which originated in Middle English around the 14th century. The noun "splinter" was borrowed from Old French "espelontre", itself derived from Latin "splintrium". The Latin term "splintrium" referred to a wooden chip or splinter. Over time, the adjective form "splintery" was formed by adding the suffix "-y" to "splinter", indicating a characteristic or quality associated with splinters. So, "splintery" describes something that resembles or possesses the nature of splinters.