The word "taw" is a four-letter noun that can be pronounced as /tɔː/ or /tɑː/. It's a small, round object used in games such as marbles or used for firing at other objects. It's often spelled without an "r" in the middle, which can lead to confusion with the word "tow." The spelling of "taw" can be traced back to Middle English and has remained relatively unchanged. With its simple spelling and clear pronunciation, "taw" is a great word to know for anyone who enjoys classic games.
Taw is a noun that has multiple meanings, depending on the context in which it is used. It can refer to a large, round glass marble used in various games, particularly marbles. Marbles have been a popular pastime for centuries, and the taw is the shooter marble used to strike the other marbles in order to knock them out of the playing area or to hit specific targets. In this sense, taw often holds a more significant value or carries specific advantages compared to regular marbles.
Taw can also be used as a verb, meaning to shoot or strike with force, particularly when playing marbles. It reflects the action of using a taw marble to hit and propel the other marbles.
Additionally, taw can be a noun referring to a line or mark left on the skin after a bruise or blow has healed. It generally represents a discoloration or disfigurement resulting from injury or impact.
Furthermore, taw can be a verb in the context of leatherworking, meaning to tan or dress leather using alum and salt. This process helps to preserve the hide and make it suitable for use in various products.
In summary, taw is primarily a noun referring to a large glass marble used in marbles games, but it can also be a verb describing the action of striking with force, a noun referring to a mark left after healing from a blow, or a verb related to the process of treating leather.
• To dress skins for gloves by impregnating them with saline, oily, and other matters, instead of tanning them.
• Among children, a marble selected to be played with; the game, or the spot or line where played from.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "taw" has multiple related meanings and different etymological origins depending on the context. Here are a few:
1. Taw as a noun meaning a large marble used as a shooter in a game:
The etymology of this sense of "taw" comes from Middle English "tawe", derived from Old English "tāwe" or "tāwa", meaning a rope or reins. This sense evolved to refer to a line used to separate a space for games such as marbles. Gradually, the term started referring to the marbles used as shooters, and that is the most common meaning today.
2. Taw as a verb meaning to prepare or dress leather:
The verb "taw" comes from Middle English "tawen", which was borrowed from Old French "tanner" (to tan).