Definition

A small pin with a large head that can be easily pushed into a surface, like a wall or bulletin board, to hold papers or notes in place.

Example

She used a pushpin to attach the flyer to the corkboard.

Conversation

Have you seen my pushpin? I can't find it anywhere.

No, I haven't. Did you check your bulletin board?

Yes, I looked there, but it seems to have disappeared.

Maybe it's under some papers on your desk. You always leave things there!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pushpin → The word is formed from "push" (from Middle English *pushen*, meaning to thrust or shove) and "pin" (from Old English *pinn*, meaning a small pointed object). The term "pushpin" refers to a small pointed object that is used to thrust or shove into a surface to hold something in place.

Memory Tip

Think of 'thrusting' something ('push') with a 'small pointed object' ('pin') to hold it in place — that's what a pushpin does.

Visually Confused Words