Word: Splintery
Part of Speech: Adjective
Definition:
The word "splintery" describes something that is rough and has small, sharp pieces sticking out, especially when talking about wood. If something is splintery, it means it can break into thin, sharp fragments that can be dangerous if touched.
Usage Instructions:
You can use "splintery" to describe surfaces or objects that are made of wood and are not smooth. It is often used in contexts where the wood is old or damaged, making it unsafe or uncomfortable to handle.
Example Sentence:
"The old wooden bench in the park was splintery, so I decided to sit on the grass instead."
Advanced Usage:
In more advanced contexts, you might use "splintery" metaphorically to describe anything that is fragile or prone to breaking apart, not just wood. For example, you could describe a relationship that is breaking down as "splintery" to suggest that it is full of sharp disagreements and tensions.
Word Variants:
- Splinter (noun): A small, thin piece of wood or other material that has broken off from a larger piece. - Splintering (verb): The action of breaking or causing to break into splinters.
Different Meanings:
- While "splintery" primarily refers to wood, it can also describe anything that resembles this quality, like a rough, uneven surface or a situation that is unstable and likely to break apart.
Synonyms:
- Jagged - Rough - Sharp-edged - Fractured
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
There are no commonly used idioms or phrasal verbs directly relating to "splintery." However, you can use phrases like "to splinter off" when talking about groups or ideas that break away from a larger whole, which carries a similar idea of division or fragmentation.
In Summary:
"Splintery" is a descriptive word that suggests roughness and the potential for sharpness, especially when talking about wood.