MOUTHFUL Meaning and
Definition
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Mouthful is a noun that refers to the amount of food or liquid that can be held or consumed by one's mouth at a time. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a word, phrase, or concept that is long, complex, or difficult to pronounce or understand.
In the literal sense, a mouthful represents the physical capacity of the mouth to hold or contain a certain quantity of food or drink. It suggests a quantity that is sufficient to fill the mouth and requires chewing and swallowing before additional intake can occur. The size of a mouthful can vary depending on the individual's mouth size, eating habits, or the specific food being consumed.
Metaphorically, a mouthful can be used to describe a word or phrase that is lengthy or challenging to articulate. It implies a level of complexity or abundance that requires effort to pronounce or comprehend fully. Additionally, mouthful can denote a concept or idea that is excessively intricate or convoluted, requiring careful attention and analysis to grasp its meaning.
The term mouthful is often employed in informal contexts or colloquial speech, where it evokes a sense of vividness and vivid imagery while conveying the literal or figurative overflowing or excessive nature of what is being described.
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• As much as the mouth can contain; a small quantity.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for MOUTHFUL *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for MOUTHFUL
Etymology of MOUTHFUL
The word "mouthful" originated from the combination of two Old English words: "mūþ" (meaning "mouth") and "fyl" (meaning "full"). Over time, these words were combined to form "mūþfyl", referring to the amount of food or drink that could fit in one's mouth at once. Eventually, the spelling evolved to "mouthful", and the term came to be used more generally to describe a quantity that could be comfortably held or accommodated by one's mouth.
Idioms with the word MOUTHFUL
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give sm a mouthful
The idiom "give someone a mouthful" is an expression commonly used to describe an angry or forceful verbal response or a thorough scolding. It implies speaking with great intensity and harshness, usually in response to a situation or someone's actions that have caused frustration, annoyance, or anger.
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You (really) said a mouthful.
The idiom "You (really) said a mouthful" means that the person spoken to has expressed a significant or profound idea that is worthy of attention or consideration. It is often used to acknowledge that the person's statement was particularly insightful, accurate, or extensive.
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say a mouthful
The idiom "say a mouthful" means to express something significant, insightful, or profound with just a few words or a single statement. It implies that what has been said carries a lot of meaning or truth and may require careful consideration or further discussion.
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give (one) a mouthful
The idiom "give (one) a mouthful" is used to describe when someone strongly and vehemently reprimands or scolds someone else, usually using harsh or critical language. It implies that the speaker is expressing their anger or disappointment in a forceful or lengthy manner, metaphorically filling the other person's mouth with words.
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give someone a mouthful
The idiom "give someone a mouthful" typically means to scold or criticize someone harshly or angrily. It can also refer to speaking to someone in a confrontational or harsh manner, often expressing displeasure or disapproval.
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