iota

UK: aɪˈəʊtə | US: aɪˈoʊtə

Definition

  1. n. an extremely small amount or quantity

  2. n. the ninth letter of the Greek alphabet (Ι, ι)

Structure
iota <Greek letter Ι/ι>
Etymology

The word "iota" directly derives from the Greek letter iota (Ι, ι), the smallest letter in the Greek alphabet. In English, it metaphorically signifies "a tiny amount" due to its minimal size and historical usage in phrases like "not one iota" (Matthew 5:18 in the New Testament), emphasizing insignificance. The term entered English via Latin in the 16th century, retaining both its literal and figurative meanings.

Examples

  1. There isn’t an iota of truth in his statement.

  2. She didn’t show an iota of hesitation during the challenge.

  3. The scientist measured the change down to the last iota.

  4. He refused to compromise even an iota on his principles.

  5. The Greek word "philosophy" begins with the letter iota.