spat

UK: spæt | US: spæt

Definition

  1. n. a petty quarrel or dispute

  2. n. (historical) a short gaiter covering the instep and ankle

  3. v. past tense and past participle of spit (to eject saliva)

Structure
spatter <scatter>dash <strike>
Etymology

The word spat carries three distinct meanings with separate origins. The quarrel sense mimics the abrupt sound of a trivial argument. The gaiter sense evolved from spatterdash, reflecting its functional purpose. The verb form retains its Old English root, showing linguistic continuity.

Examples

  1. The siblings had a brief spat over who would use the computer first.

  2. Victorian gentlemen often wore spats to keep their shoes clean.

  3. He spat out the bitter medicine in disgust.

  4. Their political spat escalated into a public debate.

  5. The actor’s polished outfit included crisp white spats.