Pronunciation: [wˈɪtlɪŋ] (IPA) 
The word "whittling" is spelled with two "t's" even though it is pronounced with only one. This is because the word is derived from the Old English word "thwitel" which was used to refer to a small knife or blade used for carving wood. Over time, the "th" sound was replaced by a "w" sound, but the spelling remained the same. The IPA phonetic transcription of "whittling" is /ˈwɪt.lɪŋ/.
Whittling is a traditional woodworking technique that involves the carving or shaping of wood using a knife or other sharp cutting tool. It is a process of gradually removing small, thin shavings or chips from a wooden object to achieve the desired shape or design.
Whittling is often practiced as a hobby or craft, and it requires skill, patience, and precision. The whittler typically holds the wood piece in one hand and the knife in the other, gently scoring or cutting away layers of wood to create intricate patterns, figures, or functional items such as utensils or toys. It is a subtractive technique, meaning that the wood is gradually reduced in size by the removal of material.
Whittling can be done with a variety of wood types, including softwoods like pine or cedar, as well as hardwoods like oak or walnut. The tools used in whittling can range from specialized whittling knives with sharp, tapered blades to general-purpose utility knives or carving gouges.
Whittling is a versatile form of woodworking that has been practiced for centuries. It is not only a creative outlet but also a way to relax and unwind. The end results of whittling can be beautifully intricate and detailed wooden objects that showcase the craftsmanship and artistry of the whittler.
The word "whittling" is derived from the Middle English word "whittle", which in turn comes from the Old English word "thwitel". Originally, "thwitel" meant a small knife or a carving tool. Over time, the term evolved to describe the act of using a knife to shape or carve wood. Today, "whittling" refers to the process of carving or cutting small pieces of wood by hand using a knife to create various shapes or objects.
