a trace of — a very small amount or sign of something that is barely noticeable
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a very small amount or sign of something that is barely noticeable
Pronunciation (IPA): /ə treɪs ʌv/
Example Sentences
- The chef claimed there was only a trace of garlic, but my vampire friend still ran away screaming.
- Scientists detected a trace of water on the distant planet.
- She spoke with a trace of her childhood accent when she was nervous.
a trace of
NOUN[/ə treɪs ʌv/]
a very small amount or sign of something that is barely noticeable

I caught a trace of cinnamon in the air as she opened the bakery door.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word 'trace' derives from French 'tracer', meaning 'to follow a track or path'. Originally denoting animal footprints or tracks, the term gradually evolved to encompass the broader meaning of a faint mark, sign, or vestige left behind by something.
Breakdown
trace (a mark or track left behind, from French tracer meaning 'to follow') + of (possessive preposition indicating belonging or association), forming the phrase 'a trace of' to denote a small or barely detectable amount of something.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The chef claimed there was only a trace of garlic, but my vampire friend still ran away screaming.”
“Scientists detected a trace of water on the distant planet.”
“She spoke with a trace of her childhood accent when she was nervous.”
“The witness claimed to see a trace of guilt in the suspect's eyes, but the jury wasn't convinced by such poetic testimony.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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