trifle
UK: /ˈtraɪf(ə)l/ | US: /ˈtraɪf(ə)l/
n. a thing of little value or importance
n. a small amount of something
n. a dessert of sponge cake layered with fruit, custard, and cream
vi. to treat or speak of something without seriousness
trifle = tri<three> + fle<small thing>
- tri<three>: From Latin tres (three), suggesting triviality by association with small quantities or divisions.
- fle<small thing>: Derived from Old French trufle (mockery, deceit), likely from Vulgar Latin truffula (a trifle).
Etymology Origin:
The word trifle originated in Middle English from Old French trufle, meaning "mockery" or "deceit," reflecting the idea of something insignificant or frivolous. The Latin root tri- (three) may imply division into small parts, reinforcing the notion of triviality. Over time, trifle evolved to describe minor matters, small amounts, and eventually a light dessert—all tied to the core idea of unimportance.
Don’t waste time on such a trifle; focus on the main issue.
She added just a trifle of sugar to her tea.
The dinner ended with a delicious berry trifle.
He tends to trifle with other people’s feelings.
It’s not a problem—just a trifle to fix.