Vocabulary Spotlight
Dart
Part of Speech: Noun, Verb
Definition: (Noun) A small pointed object thrown as a weapon or in a game; (Verb) To move suddenly and quickly in a particular direction.
“She saw a rabbit dart across the field.”
Pronunciation
[dɑrt]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Hurry
Bolt
Shoot
Lunge
Antonyms
Stroll
Meander
Saunter
Plod
Related Words
Projectile (noun)
Sprint (verb)
Word Origin
The word “dart” originates from Middle English, from Old French “dard,” meaning a pointed object or weapon. Over time, it also took on the verb form, meaning to move swiftly like a dart.
Word Family
Noun: Dart – A small pointed object thrown as a weapon or game piece.
Verb: Dart – To move or throw quickly in a direction.
Noun: Dartboard – A circular target for the game of darts.
Mnemonics
Think “Dart” as “Daringly Apart” – something that quickly separates or moves away, like darting off suddenly.
Industry-specific Usage
Sports
In sports, “dart” refers to the popular pub game where players throw pointed darts at a target to score points.
Wildlife
In wildlife, animals are often observed to “dart” across open areas to avoid predators or catch prey, reflecting speed and agility.
Fashion
In fashion, a “dart” is a stitched fold that shapes fabric for a better fit, especially in tailored clothing.
In Context
“Dart” can describe both a quick, sudden movement and an object used in games or hunting. To “dart” is often seen in animals, who move quickly to avoid danger or catch prey. In the game of darts, players aim to score by hitting specific points on a dartboard. The word captures both a sense of speed and a focus on precision.