scintilla

views updated May 23 2018

scin·til·la / sinˈtilə/ • n. [in sing.] a tiny trace or spark of a specified quality or feeling: a scintilla of doubt.

The Oxford Pocket Dictionary of Current English

Scintilla

views updated May 17 2018

SCINTILLA

A glimmer; a spark; the slightest particle or trace.

"Scintilla of evidence" is a metaphorical expression describing a very insignificant or trifling item of evidence. The common-law rule provides that if there is any evidence at all in a case, even a mere scintilla, that tends to support a material issue, the case cannot be taken from the jury but must be left to its decision.

West's Encyclopedia of American Law

scintilla

views updated May 18 2018

scintilla minute particle. XVII. — L., spark.
So scintillate sparkle. XVII. f. pp. stem of L. scintillāre; see -ATE2. scintillation XVII. — L.

The Concise Oxford Dictionary of English Etymology T. F. HOAD

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