staple

UK: ˈsteɪp(ə)l | US: ˈsteɪp(ə)l

Definition

  1. n. 1. A small piece of bent wire used to fasten papers together.

  2. n. 2. A basic or essential item, especially a food product.

  3. vt. To fasten or attach with a staple.

  4. adj. Most important; principal.

Structure
stap <post, pillar (Old English)>le <diminutive or frequentative suffix>
Etymology

The word "staple" originates from Old English stapol, meaning "post" or "pillar," reflecting its early use in structural contexts. Over time, it evolved to denote a fastener (resembling a small post) and later expanded metaphorically to mean a "principal commodity" (as in a market's central pillar). The suffix -le likely functioned as a diminutive or frequentative, emphasizing smallness or repetition.

Examples

  1. She used a staple to attach the pages of her report.

  2. Rice is a staple in many Asian diets.

  3. The office stapler is out of staples.

  4. The company specializes in staple goods like flour and sugar.

  5. Freedom of speech is a staple of democratic societies.