Buzz
The English language is an expansive and dynamic lexicon that has grown immensely by assimilating vocabulary from countless languages it has interacted with over time. This process of linguistic absorption, coupled with the natural evolution of language, has led to the disappearance of many words from everyday usage as newer terms emerge. Below, I present twenty words that I believe are still highly relevant for modern communication and deserve to be revived. If you disagree, prepare to be intrigued by my selection.
3. Words 1 – 5
1. Gardyloo – Originating from the French phrase “garde à l’eau” (Watch out for the water!), this term was used as a warning when chamber pots were emptied from windows onto the streets below. It is especially linked to the tall tenement buildings of Edinburgh (pictured).
2. Puissant – Signifying strength or might, this term was often used to refer to members of the French or English nobility. If you ever find yourself in conversation with the Queen, consider incorporating this word for a touch of elegance.
3. Sweven – Refers to a dream or vision. As quoted in Richard Burton’s translation of 1001 Nights, '[The Queen] went in to the Sultan and assured him that their daughter had suffered during all her wedding-night from swevens and nightmare.'
4. Pismire – An archaic term for an ant. The word is derived from 'piss' and 'myre,' where 'myre' denotes a small insect, and 'piss' refers to the odor some ants emit, reminiscent of urine.
5. Ambodexter – Describes someone who can use both hands with equal skill. Historically, it also implied deceitfulness, as such individuals were seen as unpredictable. It serves as a clever, subtle jab at someone you dislike who happens to be ambidextrous.
4. Words 16 – 20
16. Equipollent – Denoting equality in strength or authority. In logical contexts, it refers to two arguments that are equally valid based on the same data. While opinions on this list may vary, the conclusions drawn won’t be equipollent; after all, how could anyone not appreciate it?
17. Apricity – The comforting sensation of winter sunlight. This term inspired the creation of this list after I used it in conversation and found that no one recognized it. While not humorous, it’s a wonderful word capturing a delightful experience.
18. Dwimmer-crafty – A term popularized by Tolkien, describing someone adept in magical arts, especially in the use of deception and illusion. I often use this word to characterize the current Prime Minister.
19. Sanguinolent – Marked by the presence of blood or a fervor for violence. If you notice your urine is sanguinolent, it’s advisable to seek medical attention promptly.
20. Pizzle – The act of striking someone with a dried bull’s penis. While today you can purchase walking sticks crafted from dried bull penises, historically, they were occasionally employed for public punishments. It took considerable effort to fully grasp the context when I read about Quakers being pizzled through the streets.
1. Words 11 – 15
11. Zenzizenzizenzic – Signifying the eighth power. This term was utilized before superscript notation became widespread. In the 16th century, it was described as '[it] doeth represent the square of squares squarely.'
12. Cozen – To deceive or cheat through cunning tactics. Likely originating from a term associated with Italian horse traders, so exercise caution when purchasing horses from Italy.
13. Hugger-mugger – Describing a state of chaos and disorder, or acting in a clandestine manner. It could also imply creating a chaotic mess while attempting to conceal it (pictured).
14. Welkin – Refers to the sky or the celestial dome. It is still sometimes used in the expression 'make the welkin ring,' describing an event so loud it seems to echo through the heavens. A more refined alternative to asking 'Did the earth move for you?' would be 'Did the welkin ring for you?'
15. Attercop – An archaic term for a spider, famously used by Tolkien to depict the giant spiders of Mirkwood. Originally meaning 'poison-head,' it carried the same negative connotations when referring to a person as the word 'spider' does today.
2. Words 6 – 10
6. Contumelious – Displaying scorn or arrogant rudeness. A fitting term for the often harsh world of online publishing.
7. Excogigate – To carefully plan, devise, or plot. Derived from the Latin meaning 'to bring out by thinking,' though it has never been associated with the creation of lists.
8. Galimaufry – A chaotic mixture or hodgepodge of various elements. This word perfectly encapsulates some of my earlier lists and can also refer to a dish made from mixed chopped meats.
9. Septentrional – Pertaining to the north. Its origin lies in the seven stars of the Great Bear constellation. If you need to reference the north, why not do so with a touch of elegance?
10. Twattling – Engaging in idle chatter or excessive gossip. While a tattler is someone who spreads gossip, the term can also describe someone who fusses excessively over a pet.
