WICKS Meaning and
Definition
-
Wicks are thin pieces of porous material, typically made of cotton or a similar fibrous material, that are used to draw up and distribute liquid, typically in the context of burning or combustion. They are commonly found in candles, lamps, and oil burners, where they serve the purpose of carrying the fuel (such as wax or oil) to the flame for sustained combustion.
In the context of candles, wicks are often placed in the center of the candle and protrude from the wax. When the wick is lit, the heat melts the wax around it, and the liquid wax is then drawn up through the wick by capillary action. This allows the wick to continuously provide fuel to the flame, ensuring a consistent and sustained burn.
Wicks are also used in oil lamps and burners, where they act in a similar manner, drawing the liquid fuel up to be vaporized and burned. Due to their porous nature, wicks have the ability to hold and absorb a significant amount of fuel, providing a steady and controlled flow to the flame.
Overall, wicks are essential components in various devices and products that rely on combustion or burning for illumination or fragrance. They facilitate the transport of liquid fuel to the flame, ensuring a continuous and efficient burn.
Common Misspellings for WICKS
Etymology of WICKS
The word "wicks" has two distinct etymological origins, depending on its usage.
1. Wicks (as in candle wicks):
The word "wicks" originated from the Old English word "wec", which referred to a pliable or twisted strand. This term later evolved into "wicke" in Middle English, meaning a bundle of twisted fibers used in candle making. Over time, "wicke" transformed into its modern form, "wick", which specifically refers to the strand used to draw up liquid wax or oil to be burned in a candle or lamp.
2. Wicks (as in the plural form of "wick"):
On the other hand, when "wicks" is used as the plural form of "wick", it can be traced back to the Old Norse word "vík", which meant a bay or inlet.
Similar spelling words for WICKS
- wise,
- wick,
- wish,
- wieck,
- wig,
- Wike,
- wiggs,
- wiz,
- wiese,
- WiX,
- Wicke.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
