hairbreadth
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈhɛəˌbrɛdθ/
KK: /ˈhɛrˌbrɛdθ/
adjective
Definition
Very close or narrow, often used to describe a small distance or a near miss.
Example
The car missed the tree by a hairbreadth.
Conversation
Did you see that race yesterday?
Yeah, it was thrilling! The winner finished by a hairbreadth.
I know! I thought the other runner had it for sure.
Same here! It was such a close finish.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
narrow
slight
close
Antonyms
wide
broad
ample
noun
Definition
A very small distance or margin, often used to describe something that is extremely close or narrow.
Example
The car missed the tree by a hairbreadth.
Conversation
Did you hear about the race last weekend?
Yeah, it was so close! I think the winner finished by a hairbreadth.
That's incredible! I love when races are that intense.
Root Explanation
Hairbreadth → It is formed from "hair" (from Old English "hæġr", meaning the fine strands growing from the skin) and "breadth" (from Old English "bræde", meaning width or extent). The term "hairbreadth" refers to a very small distance or a narrow margin, as thin as a hair's width.
Memory Tip
Think of the fine strands of 'hair' representing a very small measurement, and 'breadth' indicating width — together, they describe a tiny distance.
Visually Confused Words
handbreadth