thumbed

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Word: Thumbed

Part of Speech: Adjective

Basic Definition: "Thumbed" describes something, usually pages in a book or a dictionary, that have become worn, dirty, or marked because they have been handled a lot or turned frequently by people's fingers, especially their thumbs.

Usage Instructions:

• You can use "thumbed" when talking about books, dictionaries, or any paper items that show signs of being used many times.
• It is often used to highlight that a particular item is well-used, which can imply that it is popular or valued.

Example:

• "The library had a well-thumbed copy of the classic novel, showing how many people had read it over the years."

Advanced Usage:

• You can use "well-thumbed" to emphasize that something is not just used, but loved or frequently referred to, indicating a kind of appreciation for the item.
• In a metaphorical sense, "thumbed" can also describe someone who has been through many experiences or has a lot of knowledge about a subject.

Word Variants:

• Thumb (verb): To use your thumb to turn pages or to search through something.
• Thumbprint (noun): The mark made by one's thumb, often used for identification.

Different Meanings:

• "Thumbed" can also refer to the action of using your thumb to do something, like "thumb a ride," which means to hitchhike. In this case, it is not describing the state of something as worn or soiled.

Synonyms:

• Worn
• Soiled
• Dog-eared (when pages are folded down)
• Well-used

Idioms:

• "Thumb your nose at something": To show disrespect or disdain towards something.
• "Bite the bullet": Not directly related but often used in contexts where someone has to endure something difficult—could relate to a well-thumbed self-help book!

Phrasal Verbs:

• "Thumb through": To quickly flip through the pages of a book or magazine.

Summary:

In summary, "thumbed" is a descriptive word that conveys the idea of something being well-used and often handled.

Academic

Adjective

1. (of pages) worn or soiled by thumb and fingers by frequent handling or turning
   • well-thumbed pages of the dictionary