Word of the day: Scintilla

Scintilla

[sin-TIL-ə]

Part of speech: noun

Origin: Latin, late 17th century

A tiny trace or spark of a specified quality or feeling.

Examples of scintilla in a sentence

"A scintilla of hope rose in his chest when the elevator door opened."

"There wasn't even a scintilla of evidence to support Kim’s claims."

About Scintilla

This word originated from Latin, where it translates literally to "spark."

Did you Know?

The noun "scintilla" and the verb "scintillate" come from the same root. Both words originate from the Latin "scintilla," which translates directly to "spark" or "ember." As a noun, a scintilla is a tiny speck, but as a verb, a scintillating light is sparkling.