pencil
UK: ˈpɛns(ə)l | US: ˈpɛnsəl
n. a thin cylindrical instrument used for writing or drawing, typically containing a graphite core
vt. to write, draw, or mark with a pencil
pencil = penc<small tail> + il<diminutive suffix>
- penc (from Old French pincel <small paintbrush>, derived from Latin penicillus <little tail/brush>, from penis <tail>)
- il (diminutive suffix in Latin, indicating smallness or fineness)
Etymology Origin:
The word "pencil" traces back to Latin penicillus, meaning "little tail" or "fine brush," referencing the small, pointed bristles of early brushes. Over time, it evolved in Old French to pincel (paintbrush), and by the 14th century, English adopted it to describe fine-pointed writing tools, initially made with brushes or later graphite. The diminutive suffix -il underscores its slender, delicate form.
She sharpened her pencil before starting the exam.
The artist penciled a rough sketch of the landscape.
Use a pencil for drafts so you can erase mistakes easily.
He absentmindedly chewed the end of his pencil.
The teacher asked students to write in pencil, not pen.