How Do You Spell PEG TOP?

1. A peg top is a traditional children's toy that consists of a cone-shaped wooden or plastic body, with a steel or wooden spindle attached to it. It typically has a pointed tip at the bottom, allowing it to spin when launched with a string or twine. The top is set into motion by winding the string tightly around the spindle and then quickly pulling it with a flick of the wrist or dropping it to the ground. As the string unwinds, the tension causes the top to rotate rapidly on its pointed tip, creating a spinning motion that can last for several minutes.

   Peg tops have been popular toys for centuries and are found in various cultures worldwide. They are not only entertaining but also encourage fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and patience. In addition to their play value, peg tops often serve as objects of cultural significance, as they form part of traditional games, folklore, and celebrations.

   The spinning action of a peg top is a result of the principle of angular momentum, wherein the conservation of rotational motion causes the top to stay balanced and upright during prolonged spins. The motion and stability of the top can be influenced by factors such as the weight distribution, shape, and material of the body, as well as the length and tension of the string. Peg tops come in a variety of designs, colors, and sizes, allowing for personal preferences and varied levels of difficulty.

2. A child's plaything for spinning, made of wood.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for PEG TOP

The word "peg top" originated from the combination of two separate terms.

The term "peg" is derived from Middle English "pegge" or "peg", which referred to a wooden pin or rod used for fastening objects together. This term has its roots in Old English "pegge", which has the same meaning.

The term "top" originates from Middle English "toppe", which means summit or highest point. It has Old English and Old Norse roots, sharing a similar meaning in both languages.

When these two terms were combined, "peg top" came to refer to a spinning toy that has a wooden peg-like body with a pointed end and a flat top. The toy is set in motion by winding a string around the peg and pulling it rapidly to spin the top.