THRESHOLD Meaning and
Definition
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The term "threshold" is a noun that primarily refers to the point or line of beginning or entry. It commonly denotes the physical or metaphorical limit beyond which a particular condition, impact, or effect begins to occur. Derived from the Old English word "threscold," it was initially used to describe the plank that formed the bottom of a doorway, which was crossed upon entering a house or building.
In a literal sense, a threshold is the doorway or entrance, representing the transition from one space to another. It acts as a boundary or demarcation point between two areas, often marking the shift from the exterior environment to the interior of a building. Metaphorically, it is used to describe the starting point or pivotal moment when an action, change, or reaction occurs.
Furthermore, "threshold" can be used in various contexts. In economics, it relates to the minimum level of an economic indicator that must be crossed to trigger a particular action or process. In psychology, it represents the intensity of a stimulus or experience required to produce a response or sensation. Similarly, in statistics, it refers to the level at which a variable must reach to initiate a specific outcome.
Overall, "threshold" serves as a versatile term, commonly symbolizing the initial point at which a new state, condition, or consequence emerges, be it physical, emotional, or abstract.
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1. The point where a stimulus begins to produce a sensation, the lower limit of perception of a stimulus; schwelle. 2. The external opening of a canal, entrance.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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The bar on which we tread in entering a house; the door-sill; gate; entrance; the point of entering or beginning.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for THRESHOLD *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for THRESHOLD
Etymology of THRESHOLD
The word "threshold" originated from Old English "þrescold" or "þrescwald", which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*þreskwalō". This Proto-Germanic term is a combination of "*þresk-" meaning "to tread" or "to trample" and "*walō" meaning "beam" or "pole". Therefore, the literal meaning of "threshold" would be a piece of wood or beam that was crossed by treading upon it. Over time, the word evolved and came to represent the entrance or boundary of a doorway where one would cross from one space to another.
Idioms with the word THRESHOLD
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on the threshold of sth
The idiom "on the threshold of something" refers to being at the beginning or very close to the start of a particular event, milestone, or significant change. It signifies the point at which one is about to enter or experience something new or important.
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be on the threshold of sth
The idiom "be on the threshold of something" means to be at the point or verge of experiencing or starting something significant. It signifies being on the cusp of a new phase or opportunity and suggests that one is about to cross a figurative threshold into a new situation or stage in life or work.
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be on the threshold of doing sth
The idiom "be on the threshold of doing something" means to be very close to beginning or starting to do something significant or important. It indicates being at the point where one is about to take action or embark on a new endeavor.
Similar spelling words for THRESHOLD
- no-threshold,
- Threshwold,
- low-threshold,
- threshhold.
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