Thumbtack
/ˈθʌmˌtæk/noun
A small pin with a broad, flat head, used for fastening papers or other light materials to a surface.
Did you know?Although it sounds ancient and ominous, thumbtack is a relatively modern compound: the “thumb” part refers to pressing the head with your thumb, while “tack” is an old word for a small nail or pin.
Etymological Timeline
Old English
OE
þæc
“Roofing material or thatch; the ancestor behind later English tack in some senses of fastening and sticking”
Late Old English / Middle English
English
tac
“A nail, peg, or small fastening device”
Middle English
English
thombe
“Thumb; the digit used to press or drive the pin”
18th Century
English
thumb tack
“A tack designed to be pushed in with the thumb”
Modern English
English
thumbtack
“A small flat-headed pin used for fastening paper”