thumbpiece

[thuhm-pees]

noun

1. a lever over the hinge on the lid of a tankard, pressed by the thumb to raise the lid.

Word History and Origins

Origin of thumbpiece¹

First recorded in 1750–60; thumb + piece

Example Sentences

He knows it will squirt if he touches the thumbpiece, but it is as liable to hit him in the face, or wet his feet as anything.

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Above the handle, and attached to the lid, a metal flange or thumbpiece.

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Grasp the handle, press your thumb on the thumbpiece—and presto, the lid heaves up.

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They were almost upon him when Kalvar Dard pressed in the thumbpiece of the bomb; they were clutching at him when he released it.

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A thumbpiece must be sewn on the bag at the hasp to open it by.

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