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

Spread evenly into greased 9x13 baking pan and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. —Katlyn Moncada, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Sep. 2025

Use a toothpick or metal pin to clean out any remaining deposits. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 23 Sep. 2025

The hooks are small—a little longer than a toothpick—so they're ideally sized for getting into young kids' hair or really intricate hairstyles. —Chaunie Brusie, Parents, 18 Sep. 2025

Bake in preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. —Caron Golden, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 Sep. 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