A smidgen is a small unit of measurement often used in cooking to describe a tiny amount of an ingredient. It is not a precise measurement but generally refers to a quantity that is less than a pinch, typically around 1/32 of a teaspoon. This term is commonly used in recipes where exact measurements are less critical. The term "smidgen" is part of a group of informal measurements that also includes terms like "dash" and "pinch." These terms help cooks convey the idea of adding just a little bit of something, such as salt or spices, to enhance flavor without overwhelming the dish.