Depressions or hollow marks made in a surface by impact or pressure. Plural of dent, referring to multiple such marks.
From Middle English 'dent', a variant of 'dint' meaning a blow or stroke. Originally referred to the force of a blow, then to the mark left by such force. Related to 'dint' as in 'by dint of effort'.
The phrase 'by dint of' (meaning 'by means of') and 'dent' share the same root, both originally referring to forceful impact. This connection reveals how language preserves the physical origins of abstract concepts - we still use force metaphors for effort and determination.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.