# pil

/ˈpɪɫ/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pil
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

a small, pointed object or a thin, sharp part of something. It is an old word that people rarely use today.

For teachers: a pointed or tapering object; a thin, sharp part of a structure. Archaic in register; primarily found in historical or literary contexts.

## Examples

- The old man carried a small pil in his hand.
- The poet described the sharp pil of the mountain peak piercing the morning clouds.
- In the ancient manuscript, the scribe used a fine pil to etch the delicate lines of the illuminated border into the parchment.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.