The word "thumbed" is spelled with a silent "b", which can be confusing for English language learners. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /θʌmd/, which shows that the "th" sound is a voiceless dental fricative, followed by an "ʌ" sound for the vowel. The "m" sound is then added at the end of the word. Despite the presence of the "b" in the written form, it is not pronounced, which is why this word is often misspelled by those who hear it spoken aloud for the first time.
Thumbed is the past tense and past participle form of the verb "thumb." The term "thumb" primarily refers to the action of using one's thumb to interact with something, typically in a pressing or rubbing motion. In this context, "thumbed" often conveys the act of using or pressing with the thumb, usually to navigate through or manipulate an object, such as a book, handheld device, or control. It can also imply the act of applying pressure or rubbing with the thumb, often as a means of checking or evaluating something.
Additionally, "thumbed" can carry a metaphorical meaning when used in certain contexts, such as in the phrase "thumbed through a book." In this sense, it denotes a quick or casual perusal of the content by flipping through the pages using one's thumb.
The term "thumbed" can also be used idiomatically to describe the condition of someone's thumb or thumbs, especially regarding their appearance or injury. In this context, it implies the state of having a particular characteristic related to one's thumb(s). For instance, a "thumbed thumb" may describe a swollen or injured thumb due to some mishap or excessive usage.
Overall, "thumbed" is a versatile word encompassing various meanings related to the action, appearance, or condition of thumbs and their interaction with objects or surfaces.
• Having thumbs.
• Soiled with the fingers.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "thumbed" comes from the verb "thumb", which has its origins in Old English. The Old English word was "thuman" or "thūman", derived from the Proto-Germanic word "thumbōną". The Proto-Germanic term is also related to the Old Norse word "tumall" and the Middle Dutch word "domp". Ultimately, these words trace back to the Proto-Indo-European root "*tum-", meaning "to swell" or "to be swollen". Over time, the word "thumb" evolved to include the past tense "thumbed", which refers to using or manipulating something with the thumb.