TITTLE Meaning and
Definition
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A "tittle" is a noun that refers to a small or tiny piece or part of something. This term is often used to describe a small marking or dot, typically a diacritical mark or superscript, included above or below a letter or word, indicating a specific pronunciation, meaning, or grammatical function. The term "tittle" originated from the Latin word "titulus," meaning "title" or "inscription."
In typography, a tittle specifically refers to the small dot or mark found above the lowercase letter "i" or "j," in certain languages such as English or Spanish. It is also commonly used to indicate abbreviations or acronyms in text, ensuring clarity and accuracy in written communication.
Beyond typography, the term can be extended to describe any minuscule or minor detail that contributes to the whole. For instance, in legal documents or contracts, a tittle can signify a small, but crucial word or clause that determines the interpretation or consequences of the agreement. Similarly, in religious texts, a tittle can denote a minor point or detail of importance in relation to doctrine or practice.
Furthermore, the phrase "not one jot or tittle" is often used to convey the idea of paying attention to the smallest details, emphasizing the importance of meticulousness and precision. Overall, the term "tittle" serves as a linguistic and symbolic element that contributes to the clarity, precision, and overall meaning of both written and spoken language.
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A particle; a minute part; a jot.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for TITTLE *
* 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 TITTLE
Etymology of TITTLE
The word "tittle" has its etymology derived from Old English "titiel", which means "little, small". This term was then adopted from the Germanic languages and has been used in English since the Middle Ages. It specifically refers to a small mark or point, such as a diacritical mark above or below a letter.
Idioms with the word TITTLE
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jot or tittle
The idiom "jot or tittle" originates from a biblical reference and means to be extremely precise or meticulous in attending to even the smallest details. It is often used to emphasize the importance of accuracy and thoroughness.
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jot and tittle
The idiom "jot and tittle" refers to paying close attention to small details or being meticulous in one's work. It originates from the Bible, specifically from the New Testament, where Jesus says, "For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled" (Matthew 5:18). In this context, a "jot" refers to the smallest letter in the Hebrew alphabet (yod), and a "tittle" is the smallest distinguishing mark or stroke in a letter. Therefore, the idiom emphasizes the need to be thorough and precise, leaving no detail unattended.
Similar spelling words for TITTLE
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