TEETOTUM Meaning and
Definition
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A teetotum is a small spinning top-like device, often made of wood, with a pointed base and a handle sticking out from the top. It typically has four or six sides, each marked with a different letter or symbol. Teetotums are often used for various games or gambling activities, especially in Europe and the Americas during the 17th and 18th centuries.
The teetotum is spun by holding the handle and flicking it, causing the pointed base to rotate. Once the teetotum comes to a halt, the side that faces upward indicates the outcome or action to be taken in the game being played. The outcomes can range from different letters representing certain instructions or actions, such as "take all" or "share," to symbols indicating specific rewards or penalties.
The name "teetotum" is derived from the Latin word "totum," meaning "all" or "whole," emphasizing the idea that the device encompasses a variety of outcomes. It is worth noting that the term "teetotum" is often used interchangeably with "top" or "spinning top" in some contexts, but it specifically refers to this particular multi-sided spinning top in the realm of games and gambling.
Overall, a teetotum is a small handheld spinning top with multiple sides marked with letters or symbols, used primarily for games of chance or gambling. It adds an element of unpredictability and excitement to such activities, making it a popular pastime among individuals throughout history.
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A child's toy, somewhat like a top, but twirled by the fingers; any small thing in contempt.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for TEETOTUM
- reetotum
- feetotum
- geetotum
- yeetotum
- 6eetotum
- 5eetotum
- twetotum
- tsetotum
- tdetotum
- tretotum
- t4etotum
- t3etotum
- tewtotum
- testotum
- tedtotum
- tertotum
- te4totum
- te3totum
- teetotumk
- teetotumj
Etymology of TEETOTUM
The word "teetotum" originated from the Latin word "totum" meaning "the whole". It was originally spelled as "tallith-totum" and referred to a spinning top-like toy used in gambling games. The term later transitioned to "teetotum" in English, with the prefix "tee-" added to emphasize the action of spinning. Over time, the term evolved to refer to any spinning top. In modern usage, "teetotum" typically refers to a type of spinning top in the shape of a four-sided or six-sided polygon, used in various games of chance.
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