Unexpected connection, just noticed yesterday:

There's the word "scintillating", which we use all the time.

Then there's the word "scintilla", which we use very rarely -- indeed, I think I've heard it used almost exclusively in just one phrase: "without a scintilla of evidence".

So what is a scintilla, and what is the connection between it and the act of scintillation?

I guessed that a scintilla is some kind of small, silvery, tinsel-like object that sparkles with reflected light? Or something like that? Well, it turns out that's pretty close! https://www.etymonline.com/word/scintilla gives a more accurate definition, and shows roots going back to PIE.

Back to your regularly scheduled programming, everyone.