drib
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A very small, indefinite quantity of something, especially a liquid; a tiny drop or a minute amount.
Usage
The word "drib" is a literary and somewhat archaic term. It is used to describe a minuscule or insignificant amount of a substance, most often a liquid. It is rarely used in modern everyday conversation but can be found in older literary works or used for stylistic effect to emphasize smallness.
Examples
- He wiped away the last drib of coffee from the cup's rim.
- Only a drib of paint remained in the old can.
- The story was told in dribs and drabs over many years.
Advanced Usage
- In dribs and drabs: This is the most common modern usage. It is an idiom meaning in small, irregular amounts or intermittently over a period of time.
- The news came out in dribs and drabs, confusing everyone.
- Guests arrived at the party in dribs and drabs.
Variants and Related Words
- Driblet (noun): A synonym for "drib," meaning a small drop or tiny quantity. It is also used in the idiom "in driblets."
- He saved money, a driblet at a time.
Synonyms
- Drop
- Bit
- Trace
- Smidgen
- Speck
Related Idioms
- In dribs and drabs: In small, scattered, or intermittent amounts.
- The report was released in dribs and drabs to the press.
Noun
- a small indefinite quantity (especially of a liquid)
- he had a drop too much to drink
- a drop of each sample was analyzed
- there is not a drop of pity in that man
- years afterward, they would pay the blood-money, driblet by driblet--Kipling