ball-point pen

A student writes a note with a blue ball-point pen.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A writing instrument with a tiny rotating ball as its tip: A "ball-point pen" is a pen that dispenses ink over a metal ball at its point, allowing for smooth, consistent writing. The ball rotates as the pen moves, transferring ink from a cartridge to the paper.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • She signed the contract with a blue ball-point pen. (A pen using a rotating ball mechanism to write.)
  • The teacher prefers a ball-point pen over a fountain pen for quick grading. (A pen with a ball tip for practical, everyday writing.)
  • I need to buy a new ball-point pen because mine has run out of ink. (A pen with a replaceable or refillable ink cartridge.)

Advanced Usage

• "ball-point pen" as a specific type of pen: Distinguished from other pens like fountain pens or gel pens by its oil-based ink and ball mechanism.

  • For official documents, a black ball-point pen is often required for durability. (The pen's ink is resistant to fading and smudging.)

• "ball-point pen" in historical context: Invented in the 1930s, it became popular for its reliability and ease of use compared to earlier pens.

  • The ball-point pen revolutionized writing by eliminating the need for frequent ink refills. (The pen's design made writing more accessible.)

Variants and Related Words

• Ballpoint (n): a shortened form of "ball-point pen".
  • He always carries a ballpoint in his pocket. (A ball-point pen, used informally.)
• Ballpoint ink (n): the specific type of ink used in ball-point pens.
  • Ballpoint ink is oil-based and dries quickly. (The ink's composition ensures it doesn't smear easily.)

Synonyms

• Birome: a trademarked name for a ball-point pen, common in some regions (e.g., Argentina).
• Pen: a general term for a writing instrument, though "ball-point pen" specifies the mechanism.

Related Idioms

• "To put pen to paper": to start writing, often using any pen.
  • He finally put pen to paper and wrote a letter with his ball-point pen. (He began writing, specifically using a ball-point pen.)

Note: There are no common phrasal verbs or idioms unique to "ball-point pen."