Definition of the word trifle

Pronunciation of vocabulary trifle

triflenoun

Trifle

/ˈtraɪfl//ˈtraɪfl/

Origin of the word trifle

The origin of the word "trifle" can be traced back to the Middle English term "trefil." This word, which meant "something of little worth or value," was derived from the Old French word "treffle," which in turn came from the Latin word "trifolius," meaning "having three leaves." In the 14th century, the Middle English term was adopted as a noun to refer to a small, insignificant item that had little value or significance. By the 16th century, the word had evolved to mean a little something that was both trivial and delightful, and was used to describe something that was unnecessary but enjoyable, such as an amusing pastime or a lighthearted remark. In the 18th century, the term "trifle" took on a new meaning when it began to be used to describe a small dessert made with biscuits, fruit, and a sweet sauce. This dish, which was popular among the wealthy elite, evolved over time to incorporate a variety of ingredients and became a staple dessert in many cultures around the world. Today, the word "trifle" continues to be used in its various meanings, from describing a small, insignificant object to referring to a light dessert that is both enjoyable and indulgent. Its etymology serves as a reminder of the evolution of language and the way words and meanings can change over time.

Vocabulary summary trifle

typenoun

meaningtrifle; trifle

examplestop trifling with your work!

examplehe is not a man to trifle with

exampleto trifle with one's food

meaningsmall amount of money

exampleto trifle away one's time

exampleto trifle away one's money

meaningcream sponge cake

typejournalize

meaningdespise, disregard, consider as a trivial matter; joke, joke

examplestop trifling with your work!

examplehe is not a man to trifle with

exampleto trifle with one's food

meaningwaste

exampleto trifle away one's time

exampleto trifle away one's money

Example of vocabulary triflenamespace

meaning

a cold dessert (= a sweet dish) made from cake and fruit with layers of jelly, custard and cream

một món tráng miệng lạnh (= một món ngọt) được làm từ bánh và trái cây với các lớp thạch, sữa trứng và kem

meaning

slightly

nhẹ nhàng

  • She seemed a trifle anxious.

    Cô ấy có vẻ hơi lo lắng.

  • He was just a trifle too friendly for my liking.

    Anh ấy chỉ là một người quá thân thiện so với sở thích của tôi.

meaning

something that is not valuable or important

một cái gì đó không có giá trị hoặc quan trọng

  • There’s no point worrying over such trifles.

    Không có ích gì khi phải lo lắng về những chuyện vặt vãnh như vậy.

  • $1 000 is a mere trifle to her.

    1 000 đô la chỉ là chuyện nhỏ đối với cô ấy.


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