twain

word

/ˈtweɪn/
twayn
/twˈeɪn/
twayn

Definition

An old-fashioned or literary word meaning 'two' or 'a pair.' It is rarely used in modern English except in some phrases or poetry.

Usage & Nuances

'Twain' is now archaic or poetic. Most often seen in the phrase 'never the twain shall meet.' Avoid using it in modern conversation; use 'two' or 'pair' instead.

Example Sentences

She wore twain rings on her fingers.

basic

Never the twain shall meet, they say about East and West.

natural

The ancient legend tells of twain lovers separated by fate.

natural

He likes to quote lines with words like twain, just to sound poetic.

natural

The poet wrote about twain rivers meeting at dawn.

basic

He split the wood in twain for the fire.

basic