sliver
UK: ˈslɪvə | US: ˈslɪvər
n. a small, thin, sharp piece of something cut or broken off
vt. to cut or break into small, thin pieces
sliver = sliv<to split> + er<noun suffix>
- sliv<to split>: Derived from Middle English sliven, meaning "to cut or split." Related to Old English slīfan (to cleave) and German schleifen (to grind).
- er<noun suffix>: A common English suffix indicating an agent or result of an action (e.g., "slicer," "breaker").
Etymology Origin:
The word "sliver" traces back to Old English slīfan, reflecting its Germanic roots in the concept of splitting or cleaving. Over time, the verb evolved into a noun denoting the result of such an action—a thin, sharp fragment. The suffix "-er" solidifies its role as a tangible outcome (e.g., a splinter of wood or glass). The word’s logic mirrors physical division, preserving its vivid connection to fragmentation.
She got a sliver of glass stuck in her finger.
The carpenter carefully removed a sliver of wood from the plank.
A sliver of moonlight peeked through the curtains.
He slivered the cheese into thin strips for the salad.
The broken vase left slivers all over the floor.