Spectacular Vernacular

Words amuse me. Many trace their origins back to the earliest languages in clear lineages. Others have evolved in fits and starts as people have twisted their meanings. Still others have been created in amusing ways.

My goal is to take what could be the dry topic of etymology and make it fun and entertaining with short vignettes on some spectacular vernacular.

Kerfuffle

September 28, 2022 |

The word itself is fun to say and use, but its etymological history is quite the kerfuffle which makes it that much more fun.

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Jeremiad

September 21, 2022 |

I promise not to post a long-winded complaint about this week’s spectacular vernacular despite its ancient etymology—jeremiad.

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Retronym

September 14, 2022 |

When we create new words or phrases to express new ideas, sometimes we need to develop a retronym to distinguish the past from the future.

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Kakistocracy

September 8, 2022 |

For everyone who rolls their eyes at the crazy things done by politicians, I’ll share the worst word kakistocracy for your daily use.

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Desiccate

September 1, 2022 |

At the end of the day, I look forward to a glass of wine with dinner, but an article about land being desiccated upset the grape cart.

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Matutinal

August 25, 2022 |

Don’t you hate it when you are trying to get a few more minutes of sleep before starting your day, but some loud, matutinal bird shrieks outside your window?

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Polysemous

August 17, 2022 |

Polysemous is one of those complex looking words with a simple meaning referring to multiple meanings. Confused? Check this out.

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Obstreperous

August 10, 2022 |

The next time you can’t hear yourself think because of excessive noise, you can thank the obstreperous person / creature near you.

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Katabatic Vs Anabatic

August 4, 2022 |

Ever noticed the winds shifting at sunset in sunrise in the mountains? You’re well on your way to understanding katabatibc and anabatic.

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