What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cuspidor
Example
The cuspidor was full of cigarette butts and chewing gum. [cuspidor: noun]
Example
The nurse handed the patient a cuspidor to spit into. [cuspidor: noun]
Example
The dentist asked the patient to rinse their mouth and spit into the cuspidor. [cuspidor: noun]
spittoon
Example
The cowboy spat his tobacco juice into the spittoon. [spittoon: noun]
Example
The antique shop had an old brass spittoon on display. [spittoon: noun]
Example
In some cultures, it is customary to offer guests a spittoon as a sign of hospitality. [spittoon: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Both cuspidor and spittoon are not commonly used in modern times. However, cuspidor is used more frequently in medical and dental settings, while spittoon is associated with a bygone era and is not commonly used anymore.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cuspidor and spittoon?
Cuspidor is typically associated with a clinical and formal tone, while spittoon is more informal and rustic in tone.
