How Do You Spell WHITTLES AWAY?

1. The phrase "whittles away" is an idiomatic expression that is often used figuratively to describe the gradual reduction or diminishment of something over time. It is derived from the act of carving or shaping wood by repeatedly cutting away small pieces with a knife, known as whittling.

   In this context, "whittles away" refers to the incremental erosion or decline of a particular entity, such as resources, wealth, or even time. It indicates a process of gradual reduction or diminishment caused by continuous or relentless actions or circumstances. This figurative expression is frequently employed when discussing concepts related to gradual loss, decay, or the wearing away of something's original form or substance.

   For instance, the phrase can be used to describe the gradual depletion of one's savings due to continuous expenses or the dwindling of a company's profit margins over time. Additionally, it could be used to convey the notion of how the passage of time can wear down the physical or mental capabilities of an individual, as in the physical whittling away of a block of wood.

   Overall, "whittles away" captures the essence of a slow, progressive, and often unnoticed process of reduction, erosion, or diminishment over a period of time.

Common Misspellings for WHITTLES AWAY

The phrase "whittles away" is the combination of two words: "whittle" and "away".

The term "whittle" originated from the Old English word "hwitilian", which meant "to cut small bits or shavings from a piece of wood with a knife". It was commonly used to refer to the act of shaping or carving wood through small continuous cuts. Over time, "whittle" started to be used metaphorically to describe various processes of gradual reduction or diminishment.

The word "away" is derived from the Old English word "aweg" or "onweg", meaning "from this or that place", or "in a direction from oneself". It implies movement or distance.