toothpick

noun

tooth·​pick ˈtüth-ˌpik How to pronounce toothpick (audio)
: 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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 See All Example Sentences for toothpick

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of toothpick was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Toothpick.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/toothpick. Accessed 1 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

toothpick

noun
tooth·​pick -ˌpik How to pronounce toothpick (audio)
: a pointed instrument (as a thin piece of wood) for removing substances caught between the teeth

Medical Definition

toothpick

noun
tooth·​pick -ˌpik How to pronounce toothpick (audio)
: a pointed instrument (as a slender tapering piece of wood) used for removing food particles lodged between the teeth

More from Merriam-Webster on toothpick

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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