Potrzebie is a Polish word popularized by its non sequitur use as a running gag in the early issues of Mad not long after the comic book began in 1952. The word is pronounced ?p?t???b?e in Polish and is a declined form of the noun "potrzeba" (which means "need"), but in English it was purportedly pronounced /?p?t?z?bi/ or /?p?tr?zi?bi/. Its Eastern European feel was a perfect fit for the New York Jewish style of the magazine.
Used to describe an old man: "the old fart" or "he's an old fart." Never used in reference to a senior lady. Might refer to the tendency to flatulate or willingness to flatulate openly.
Comments by cj2a
CJ2A commented on the word potrzebie
Potrzebie is a Polish word popularized by its non sequitur use as a running gag in the early issues of Mad not long after the comic book began in 1952. The word is pronounced ?p?t???b?e in Polish and is a declined form of the noun "potrzeba" (which means "need"), but in English it was purportedly pronounced /?p?t?z?bi/ or /?p?tr?zi?bi/. Its Eastern European feel was a perfect fit for the New York Jewish style of the magazine.
(from Wikipedia)
April 19, 2009
CJ2A commented on the word lilly-liver
"Lily-liver" is a reference to someone being a coward. There are several references in Shakespeare's plays.
April 19, 2009
CJ2A commented on the word fire damp
Fire damp refers to an explosive mixture of methane and other gases which naturally occur in coal mines.
April 19, 2009
CJ2A commented on the word damp
Soft rubber mounts were installed to 'damp' the machine's vibrations. Often the word 'dampen' is used incorrectly in this sense.
April 19, 2009
CJ2A commented on the word peripatetic
I think there is a sense of "wandering" and "wanderlust" not necessarily related to travel on foot.
April 13, 2009
CJ2A commented on the word fart
Used to describe an old man: "the old fart" or "he's an old fart." Never used in reference to a senior lady. Might refer to the tendency to flatulate or willingness to flatulate openly.
April 13, 2009
CJ2A commented on the word pusilanimous
I believe it was Gabby Hayes, old-time cowboy actor who referred to "bad guys" as "pusilanimous polecats." That help?
April 13, 2009