toothpick

noun

tooth·​pick ˈtüth-ˌpik 

: a pointed instrument (such as a slender tapering piece of wood) for removing food particles lodged between the teeth

Examples of toothpick in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Deaths by toothpick average three per year, slightly less than annual shark attack fatalities. — Scott Lafee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 July 2026

Have toothpicks close by for guests to nibble on the bites as a sticky-sweet appetizer. — Erin Merhar, Southern Living, 19 July 2026

Bake for 15 minutes more, or until the brownies pass the toothpick test. — Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 July 2026

The handle comes to a point, so it can be used as a toothpick (which comes in handy after enjoying a Chomp or two). — Katie Jackson, Travel + Leisure, 16 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for toothpick

• broomstick
• dipstick
• homesick
• joystick
• lipstick
• nonstick
• pickwick
• picnic
• redbrick
• seasick
• sidekick
• slapstick

Kids Definition

toothpick

noun

tooth·​pick -ˌpik 

: a pointed instrument (as a thin piece of wood) for removing substances caught between the teeth

Medical Definition

toothpick

noun

tooth·​pick -ˌpik 

: a pointed instrument (as a slender tapering piece of wood) used for removing food particles lodged between the teeth