What is in a Word?

What is in a name? What is in a word for that matter? Shakespeare was an amazing wordsmith and the list of words he invented, which are still part of our everyday language, is numerous, estimates are around 1700. Here are some examples: swagger, obscene, luggage, and bump. This happens because we all work together to create, sustain, and maintain our language. That’s what it means to be “socially constructed.” New words pop up all of the time like, “Googling” something or wearing a “Hoodie.” Words are always changing and evolving. 

 Interestingly when someone says something out of place (whether that is because of time, place, to get attention, or misuse) we can become jarred by it. For example, if I say someone just got a “flat-top” or you drive a “flip-top,” you might be confused, depending on your ability to translate an out-of-date phrase. Well, let me enlighten you: a “flat-top” is a men’s hairstyle which probably will make a come back any day. And a “flip-top” is a convertible car.

An awesome flat-top

An awesomer flip top

In order to better understand words, we need context and sometimes explanations. Some authors believe that they should follow the rules of language and some– really don’t 🙂

Dr. Seuss is famous for this. In his book, If I Ran a Zoo, Dr. Seuss was the first person to document the word nerd. Some people believe he invented it. I like to think he did. So here is a picture of the first “nerd.”

Another famous author made up his own words in the famous poem, “Jabberwocky.” Lewis Carroll created the famous words “chortle” and “galumphing.” If you don’t know this poem: find it and read it! It’s awesome.

I like it when authors are courageous enough to push the boundaries of language. It makes life more interesting, vibrant, and creative!

Do you know where the word “yahoo” originated? Hint: in a book about someone’s famous travels.

Have you ever made up your own words?