skittle
UK[ˈskɪt(ə)l]US[ˈskɪt(ə)l]
n
A pin used in the game of skittles.
n
(skittles) A game played by rolling a ball to knock down such pins.
Etymology
The word 'skittle' entered English in the mid-17th century, its origins shrouded in some mystery but likely connected to Scandinavian languages. It is probably related to the Old Norse word 'skutill', meaning 'bolt' or 'harpoon', a term that evokes the shape and function of the pin. This connection suggests the game's equipment was named for its projectile-like form. The modern sense is thus a direct inheritance, with the word's meaning narrowing specifically to the pin used in a particular target game.
Analysis
The word 'skittle' is a simplex borrowing. Its functional role is as a complete noun.
Examples
He carefully set up the wooden skittle at the end of the lane.
We spent the evening playing skittles at the local pub.
The ball veered off and missed all the skittles.