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modicum

noun

/ˈmɒdɪkəm/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of modicum

A small or moderate amount of something, often implying that the quantity is sufficient for a particular purpose but not abundant or excessive.
"He possessed only a modicum of musical talent, but loved playing the guitar nonetheless."

Detailed meaning of modicum

When "modicum" is used, it suggests that there is at least a minimum or essential quantity of a substance, quality, or attribute present. For example, someone might say they have a modicum of patience left, indicating they still have a bit of patience remaining despite a challenging situation. "Modicum" emphasizes the idea of having just enough to meet a basic need or expectation, underscoring the modesty or limitation of the quantity in question. In essence, it signifies a small but adequate amount of something.

Example sentences containing modicum

1. She had only a modicum of patience left after a long day.
2. He found a modicum of peace in the quiet of the library.
3. The chef added a modicum of spice to the dish for flavor.
4. We managed to secure a modicum of funding for the project.
5. His words contained a modicum of truth, but were mostly lies.
6. The charity provided a modicum of relief to the needy.

History and etymology of modicum

The noun 'modicum' has its etymological roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'modicus,' which means 'moderate' or 'reasonable.' The term 'modicus' itself comes from 'modus,' which translates to 'measure' or 'limit.' Therefore, the etymology of 'modicum' reflects the idea of something being within a measured or reasonable limit, implying that it is a small or moderate amount of something. When we use the term 'modicum,' we are often suggesting that the quantity is sufficient for a particular purpose but not abundant or excessive. This etymological origin underscores the notion of moderation and adequacy associated with 'modicum.'

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Further usage examples of modicum

1. Despite the challenges, she maintained a modicum of hope.
2. The garden produced a modicum of vegetables this season.
3. The room offered only a modicum of comfort for guests.
4. His apology lacked a modicum of sincerity.
5. She possessed only a modicum of knowledge on the subject.
6. The singer showed a modicum of talent during the performance.
7. The jury found a modicum of evidence to support the case.
8. He had only a modicum of energy left after the long hike.
9. The project received a modicum of attention from investors.
10. The dessert provided a modicum of sweetness to the meal.
11. Their effort yielded a modicum of success in the end.
12. The museum displayed a modicum of historical artifacts.
13. The feedback received was a modicum of constructive criticism.
14. The comedian's jokes elicited only a modicum of laughter.
15. She only had a modicum of time to finish her project before the deadline.
16. The recipe called for a modicum of salt, just enough to enhance the flavor.
17. She had a modicum of interest in the topic, but it wasn't enough to keep her engaged.
18. He had a modicum of experience with programming, which helped him to troubleshoot a software issue.
19. The presentation lacked a modicum of organization, making it difficult to follow.
20. The candidate had a modicum of charisma, but lacked the experience needed for the job.
21. They had only a modicum of food left, just enough for a small meal.
22. The essay displayed a modicum of creativity, but failed to fully explore the topic.
23. He had a modicum of patience, which allowed him to deal with difficult customers.
24. The project required a modicum of teamwork, which helped to ensure its success.
25. The museum only displayed a modicum of artifacts, but each one was carefully curated.