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

Bake for about an hour and a half, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. —Jeffrey Steingarten, Vogue, 23 Nov. 2025

The tweezers can grab small, difficult to pull screws and parts, while the toothpick can clean out tight spaces and creases around the machine – just remember not to use it to clean out your teeth later on. —New Atlas, 16 Nov. 2025

Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the muffin tops spring back when pressed. —Ashia Aubourg, Outside, 12 Nov. 2025

Use a toothpick to clear clogs. —Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 10 Nov. 2025

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