Thumbtacks

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. Small, sharp-pointed fasteners designed to attach papers to surfaces while being easily removable
2. Lightweight and practical pins with a wide head that can hold items on bulletin boards or similar materials
3. Simple office supplies used to secure documents without causing damage, allowing for quick attachment and detachment

Etymology: "Thumbtacks" is the plural of "thumbtack," a compound of "thumb" and "tack." A tack is a short nail with a flat head, and the name describes the way the object is used: it is pressed into a surface with the thumb rather than struck with a hammer. The "thumb" element therefore records the method of driving the nail, not its shape or size.

Synonyms: pushpins, tacks, pins, fasteners, clips