scintilla

/ˈsɪntɪlə/

Definitions

1. noun

a small, often insignificant, amount of something, especially of light or heat.

“The scintilla of hope kept her going through the difficult times.”

2. noun

a small piece or fragment of something, especially a spark of an idea or a glimmer of insight.

“The scintilla of inspiration from the artist’s previous work helped her create something new.”

3. noun

a minute or barely perceptible effect or impression.

“The scintilla of doubt in his mind made him second-guess his decision.”

4. verb

to give off sparks or flashes of light, or to shine with a small, flickering light.

“The fireworks scintilla in the night sky.”

5. verb

to be attractive or interesting, but in a subtle or faint way.

“The new restaurant scintilla in the evening, attracting a crowd of diners.”

6. verb

to produce or give off sparks or flashes of light.

“The match scintilla, lighting up the dark room.”

Synonyms

  • flash
  • gleam
  • glimmer
  • spark

Antonyms

  • darkness
  • obscuration