pen
PEN
/pɛn/
An instrument for writing or drawing with ink.
Refers specifically to ink-based writing tools, distinguishing it from pencils (graphite) or markers (felt tip).
The story behind the word. The word 'pen' comes from the Latin word penna, meaning 'feather.' This is a direct nod to the quill pen, which was literally a bird's feather (often a goose feather) sharpened and used for writing with ink. Even though modern pens are far removed from feathers, their name carries this ancient, elegant heritage of writing.
Word relationships
- writing implement: A broader, more formal term.
Commonly confused with
- pencil: A pen writes with ink, which is permanent; a pencil writes with graphite, which is erasable.
Word family
- penmanship (noun): The art or skill of writing by hand.
Collocations
- ballpoint pen
- fountain pen
- gel pen
- ink pen
- sign with a pen
- borrow a pen
Idioms & expressions
- the pen is mightier than the sword (writing is more powerful than violence)
- put pen to paper (to start writing)
Example sentences
- "She always carried a small notebook and a pen in her bag, ready to jot down ideas." Everyday writing
- "Please sign your name clearly with a blue or black pen." Signing documents
Memory hook
A PEN used to be a FEATHER (penna). Feather for ink.
When not to use
When you need to erase your writing (use a pencil), or for very broad, bold strokes (use a marker).
Fun facts
- The earliest known pens were reed pens used by ancient Egyptians.
- The ballpoint pen was invented by László Bíró in the 1930s.
Explore more words
highlighter, eraser, sharpener, stationery, stapler, pendant
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