The minute
Example: Wait a minute before you start again
Definition
"The minute" refers to a unit of time equal to sixty seconds, commonly used to measure short intervals or specific moments, as in the phrase 'Wait a minute before you start again,' indicating a brief pause or delay.
Etymology
The term "the minute" derives from the Latin 'minuta,' meaning 'small part,' which evolved through Old French into English. Originally referring to a small division of an hour, it now universally signifies sixty seconds. Did you know? The word highlights how ancient timekeeping was divided into increasingly smaller parts.
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"The minute" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - (A1) - set 2", containing 103 commonly used words.
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