Tooth

Definition

Tooth refers to one of the hard, calcified structures embedded in the jaw or mouth of many vertebrates, used for biting, chewing, or in some cases, defense. Its plural form is teeth, referring to all the dental structures collectively.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tuːθ/ (singular), /tiːθ/ (plural)
• Respelling: TOOTH (singular), TEETH (plural)

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tuːθ/ (singular), /tiːθ/ (plural)
• Respelling: TOOTH (singular), TEETH (plural)

Etymology

The word "tooth" originates from Old English "tōþ," derived from Proto-Germanic "*tanþs," and ultimately from Proto-Indo-European "*h₃dónts," meaning "tooth." Cognates include Old High German "zand" and Latin "dens."

Derivatives

• Toothed (adjective)
• Toothless (adjective)
• Toothy (adjective)
• Toothsome (adjective)
• Retoothed (verb)

Synonyms

• Molar
• Incisor
• Canine

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The word "tooth" refers to an individual structure, as in "The child lost a baby tooth." The plural form "teeth" refers to all of the structures collectively, as in "She brushed her teeth every morning and night."

Related Terms

• Enamel: The hard, outer layer of a tooth.
• Dentist: A professional specializing in oral health.
• Gums: The soft tissue surrounding the teeth.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A calcified structure in the mouth used for biting or chewing: Refers to a single tooth in humans and animals.
  • Example: "The dentist examined the patient’s broken tooth."
• The plural form "teeth": Refers to all of the dental structures collectively.
  • Example: "Carnivorous animals have sharp teeth to tear meat."
• A part resembling a tooth in shape or function: Refers to projections in tools, gears, or machinery.
  • Example: "The saw blade’s tooth was damaged after heavy use."
• A metaphor for effectiveness or power: Refers to the strength or enforceability of a law or system.
  • Example: "This policy gives more tooth to consumer protection laws."