Sir--I would be derelict in my duty not to go in when provoked so aggressively. I mean, come on--things I say to people? I surprised no one went in before me.
Speaking of which--thanks for the cover, reesetee... :-(
It sounds like you're mixing up words from the refrain from Bryan Hyland's "Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Yellow Polka Dot Bikini," probably the greatest earworm ever produced.
Well, that explains why you rarely see anyone younger than 60 use it. We can't catch the disaprovees (aka "young whippersnappers") any longer and actually beat them with a stick, so we have to pantomime it.
Shaking your index finger at someone while simultaneously frowning to indicate your disapproval of what they are doing. Onset of FoD in humans seems to occur at about age 60.
The practice of sailboats traveling south along the US Atlantic coast to travel close to the shore to catch the southerly Labrador current and avoid the northerly Gulf Stream current farther offshore.
"Coasting" has an interesting double sense here--to coast along with a current and to stay close to the coast.
"Yes, a hat. A lion taming hat. A hat with 'lion tamer' on it. I got it at Harrods. And it lights up saying 'lion tamer' in great big neon letters, so that you can tame them after dark when they're less stroppy."
I can't find a reference to it anywhere, so let's just use Wordie to officially coin it. Those little bubbles need a name, and "wulm" has a nice collective ring to it--e.g., "That's a very active wulm you have going there, bard. Get the teabags ready."
I don't understand, Pro. When I added pimiento load, a downy woodpecker flew past my window. Then, when I added phthisical, it started to rain. Maybe you're not looking hard enough.
Or maybe you're not using enough exclamation points!!
Not to be too contrary, but I'd opt for just the opposite of gangerh's suggestion for expanding the "Most Citations..." and other lists pertaining to specific Wordies. Why not eliminate them altogether and focus solely on words?
You know, we have the makings of a very good list here--something having to do with, ummm, interesting bodily accretions. We already have toejam, fromunda cheese, earwax, pus, and smegma. Jolly!
If ever there were a word that sounded exactly like what it is, it has to be smegma.
If you wanted to feed cats what they really craved, those cans would be filled with live mice and dead birds with those mysterious little entrails that are always left at your door already removed.
Which, as far as I'm concerned, is far less disgusting than Tuscan dinners for cats.
You know, what we need here is a good Uranus joke. Like "There are strange radio signals emanating from Uranus," or "We need to send a probe deep into Uranus," or "I'd like to explore Uranus more once we've safely touched down."
When I am improvising (and not simply playing from muscle memory), I "see" landscapes with different configurations and textures. Going in a certain direction causes me to play one way, going in another direction results in something different. I can "hear" what it will sound like before I go there. It sometimes takes me while to reach that zone where I perceive landscapes. On a good night, I get there very quickly.
As in "Y'all quiet'n down so I can listen to General Hospital." Commonly used throughout the southern US.
Actually, I'm not at all sure how this should be spelled. I've always assumed it was a contraction of "quiet on," but I don't recall ever seeing it written. It is pronounced like triton (or chiton, for mollusque's benefit).
Hello, ofravens. My little part of Alaska is in the Interior, near Fairbanks in a small community named Ester--so it's not likely that you'll pass closely by on your cruise. Unfortunately, it's also not very likely that you'll see an aurora since there is so much daylight in June. You can read a book outside at 2:00 am in June at my house. (And I often do, in my hammock...) In the Southeast on your cruise, it gets dark enough for a couple of hours that you might see them. Come back in November if you want to live under them every night.
Annette Funicello; one of the original Mouseketeers. My infatuation ended when she started making beach movies with Frankie Avalon and with the advent of Elke Sommer...
I just couldn't let this phrase go unWordied. Found at Blender.com.
"How sure was MCA that slinky Irish teen Carly Hennessy was going to be a gargantuan pop star? So sure that in 1999 they staked the former Denny’s sausage spokesmodel with a $100,000 advance, $5,000 a month in living expenses and an apartment in Marina Del Rey, California, spending roughly $2.2 million in all on her 2001 debut, Ultimate High."
These were also popular in the 50s for boys due to a brief national infatuation with calypso music (and Harry Belafonte in particular.) They had fake rope belts and stripes down the outside of the leg. I have some embarrassing pictures of myself in them on the first day of school in about 1958. And no, I won't share them...
There's a war going on, but Dick Cheney valiantly finds a better way to serve his country through a series of five student deferments and a carefully planned pregnancy.
Another example to add on to yarb's and john's comments--the words on my Body Metaphors list are now tagged with anatomy, colloquialism, metaphor, body metaphors, and slang. The tags don't have to be literal--they can link your lists to other lists with even tangentially similar content. I'm anxious to see what other words have been tagged with "metaphor," for example.
It depends on where you look, mollusque. The "e" version is from Spanish but it's the version many climbing books use. I thought it might make a nice monovocalic...
My pleasure, ofravens. I love your username. I live in Alaska where ravens are common. They loom large in Athabascan lore. Some of them nest near my house. It's astonishing how many sounds they can make, and how intelligent they are. I never pass up a chance to watch them.
Hey, John...could you provide a way to bulk-tag existing lists? For example, there are currently 187 untagged entries on one of my lists. I'd love to be able to apply a tag (or set of tags) to one of my lists--or other folks' lists, for that matter. I'm far less likely to open each of those entries to apply tags, but if I could do it all at once...
Tags can be an enormous benefit in tracking down words and conversations. I'm as guilty as anyone in terms of forgetting to provide them, but if we all took tags a bit more seriously we'd all benefit.
An artificial channel with riffles along the bottom, set in a stream and fed with dirt or alluvium so that the dirt and lighter materials will wash away and the heavier gold will be trapped in the riffles. Commonly used by recreational miners.
Sharp ice peaks formed when sunlight reflects off of small depressions in the snow cover, melting the snow unevenly and forming tall peaks. Typically found when traveling on a glacier. When these refreeze at night, they can become quite hard and sharp, making travel difficult. Climbers usually call them neve penetentes. Nice image here.
Interesting, c_b. I would have guessed that usage would be much older. Now I'm wondering about hippopotamus. Must go look up when that came into common usage...
Edit: About 1300, according to the Online Etymology Dictionary.
My guess is that it and Mesopotamia have something in common. :-) My other guess is that since Potomac comes from an Algonquin Indian word, any similarity is probably just a coincidence...
I can't stand golf, but I've always loved this term since I learned it from a golf-playing friend. From the Golf Rules dictionary:
Any temporary accumulation of water on the course (other than a water hazard) visible before or after the player takes his stance. It includes:
-snow and ice
-overflow from a water hazard if outside the hazard
-a pitch mark filled with water
It does not include:
-soft mushy ground
-water which appears when pressing a footmark down -dew and frost
-manufactured ice
-water on the putting green which was not visible when taking stance but which became visible when approaching the ball.
The player is entitled to relief when his ball lies in or touches casual water or when it is on the course and interferes with his stance or area of intended swing (or if the ball is on the putting green, his line of putt).
I'm delighted to know that rozzer is a vetted term. I remember a piece from Mad Magazine from a very long time ago that dealt with slang, and one of the example sentences was "It's crackers to slip a rozzer the dropsy in snide." (Translation: "It's crazy to pay off a cop in phony money.")
Why I can remember that and not some of my students' last names from last semester is a puzzle to me. (Do you want to know my 7th grade locker combination? I've got that...)
Since seque basically means a way to transition from one segment (of a topic, scene, etc.) to another, it's logical that you'd think it would be spelled segway. I learned the term in film school, back when we actually used film...
My son recently told me about a game that he and his friends call "The Game." The only rule is that if you think about the game, you lose. You're supposed to say "Oh crap" (or something appropriately similar depending on your surroundings) when this occurs, and everyone is on the honor system.
From ananova.com: "A New Zealander ended up in court after punching a man over a breach of urinal etiquette."
I have always suspected there was such a code. It would have helped me during an incident in which I once peed right next to Ted Kennedy in the Salt Lake City airport. I was going to make a pun about Chappaquiddick (there are just so many possibilities there) but I refrained.
That reminds me of an HP Lovecraft story in which the protagonist, having acquired the ability to peer into the future, sees himself lying helplessly in a vegetative state. To prevent this from happening, he decides to take his life by shooting himself in the head. The attempt is not successful, though--his wounds put him into a vegetative state...
But during the noon darkness of Svalbard's winter, observers should be able to see the dayside aurora, which enter our atmosphere directly. Without the extra slingshot magnetic kick, these particles are less energetic, so produce a fainter, reddish glow.
I've never seen this. Must start looking. Full article here.
HA! I had forgotten all about our spam-bot friend. I just love his lyrical (and LONG!) account of the difficulties of reading while trying to get a tan. You've got to hand it to a guy who takes the initiative in solving some of the great problems of our time.
It shouldn't, but it does. I can't think of another word that affects me like this. I suspect it's a product of my upbringing. It was always associated with hate or prejudice.
C_B--I just spent a very pleasant hour rummaging through these old conversations. I had completely forgotten about dork out and several others. Thanks for collecting them in one place.
Hebrew for "holocaust" or "disaster." Quoted in the news recently as a threat from Israel regarding what will transpire in Gaza should Hamas continue shelling Israeli territory.
A truly...unique version of vagina dentata appeared in a 1959 Soviet science fiction film called Nebo Zovyot, a pioneering film that garnered some critical respect until Roger Corman bought it, recruited a young Francis Ford Coppola to rework it, and released it to American audiences as "Battle Beyond the Sun." That film is pretty awful, but when the battle between two monsters begins it's pretty difficult not to understand why "vagina dentata" is a keyword for this movie on IMDB.
Heard this morning on NPR. Said of a child who had not learned to regulate his own behavior. I suspect that his hair was discombed and he was disdressed as well.
Gangerh, I'll trade you stories. Here's mine. I grew up with the Taylors in Chapel Hill (where papa Ike was the dean of the med school) and played in bands with most of them. Livvy and I were in the same grade. A few of us were over at their house during Christmas holidays and decided to go Christmas caroling. Word was that James and his "girlfriend" were around somewhere and might join us. They did. It was a fun evening...
Gangerh...THE Brian Jones? With the teardrop Vox? He was my ultimate hero back in the day.
I once went Christmas caroling with James Taylor and Joannie Mitchell, but I'd trade it for a day with Brian Jones. (Or would have, when he was alive...)
You may be interested to know that Cold Bay (pop. 87) is the third option for landing the space shuttle should FL or CA not work out due to weather. It has a huge lighted airstrip left over from a WWII air base. Occasionally, international flights that develop mechanical problems stop there.
In theoretical physics, a membrane, brane, or p-brane is a spatially extended, mathematical concept that appears in string theory and its relatives (M-theory and brane cosmology). The variable p refers to the spatial dimension of the brane. That is, a 0-brane is a zero-dimensional pointlike particle, a 1-brane is a string, a 2-brane is a "membrane", etc. Every p-brane sweeps out a (p+1)-dimensional world volume as it propagates through spacetime.
An increasing problem on social networking sites such as Facebook; unsolicited spam generated by applications that require you to invite friends to try the application before you can use it. I'd also apply the term to jokes that have been forwarded so many times that the message indents take up most of the page...
Genre of softcore punk music that integrates unenthusiastic melodramatic 17 year olds who don't smile, high pitched overwrought lyrics and inaudible guitar rifts with tight wool sweaters, tighter jeans, itchy scarfs (even in the summer), ripped chucks with favorite bands signature, black square rimmed glasses, and ebony greasy unwashed hair that is required to cover at least 3/5 ths of the face at an angle.
Note: I do realize that the word "rifts" should be "riffs," but I think I might invent a new guitar method employing rifts--you know, respecting the silent spaces between sounds, or whatever...
A word my son uses to describe things that are worthless. From the Urban Dictionary: "broken; unnecessarily redundant, superfluous, or meaningless; stupid or ridiculously moronic; bootleg or of questionable quality."
Typical usage: "My teacher made us read the whole chapter. It was so jank."
I've been thinking about a comment mollusque made the other day on euryvocalic. He was able to remember an epiphanic moment at which words took on a new meaning for him. I think mine came from much more lowly circumstances. At about age 7 or 8 I read a little comic included in a Bazooka Bubblegum package that posed the question "What is the longest word in the world?" The answer, of course, is smiles, because there is a mile between the two s's. I remember thinking about that for days--it changed the way I thought about words and language in ways that are still with me today.
Tommy Boyce and bobby Hart were the songwriters responsible for much of the early Monkees' material, including their theme song. They also played the instruments on early Monkees' tracks before the Monkees were allowed to play them themselves. History may forgive them someday.
Heaven's Just A Sin Away is the only country and western song I have on my iPod. Any song with a title like that has to be good. They also had an interesting tune about cheating on your spouse called "Pittsburgh Stealers."
Deep, uselessness. We don't usually think of race and, say, hair color in the same way, but essentially having blonde hair is no different than being ethnically Chinese--they're both just results of genetic adaptations. We're still all the same species...
It was used mostly derogatorily. My parents were livid when they found out I was listening to race radio. (They would have been more upset if they had ever found out I was in Durham watching James Brown and Percy Sledge...)
Rufus and Carla Thomas, a father and daughter duo who recorded for Stax records. Best known for "The Night Time is the Right Time" and "Do The Funky Chicken." Each was a successful solo artist as well.
The name used throughout the South to describe music (soul, beebop, jazz, gospel, rhythm and blues, etc.) produced by African-American musicians. When I was growing up, I used to listen to "race radio"--those stations that played race music from Stax, Motown, Chess, and others. There were also "race theaters"--small venues that booked African-American acts. (I was usually the only white face in those theaters, but I got to see some incredible performances.)
Not to be confused with Ian and Sylvia (or with Mitch and Mickey), Mickey and Sylvia had a hit with the wonderful song Love Is Strange. Loved the guitar riffs in that one...
Established many recording studio techniques that are now standard, including multi-tracking of vocals and instruments. Several number one hits in the fifties.
a.k.a. The Fluorescent Leech and Eddie when they were with The Mothers of Invention, and as Mark Volman and Howard Kaylan when they were with the Turtles. Talk about two extremes...
Creators of one of the very worst songs ever, so vile that it will not be referenced here. My day has already been ruined with a severe case of earworm...
From the late 1700s to the late 1800s, flat barges (known as flatboats) were built in the north country to float crops and other goods down the Mississippi to New Orleans. Since they could not be floated back upriver, the barges were disassembled and recycled for use in constructing houses. An interesting example can be found here.
I don't really know, c_b. I can't find any evidence one way or the other. The dreadnought shape was larger than the then-predominant parlor guitar shape and it was much louder and clearer than previous shapes, so perhaps there is a connection there.
This word has a very different connotation to a guitar player. It's the standard shape of most modern acoustic guitars, having been designed by the Martin company in 1931.
John, this is a minor point, but it would be nice if there were a "past comments" link at the bottom of the Recent Comments and Citations section as well as the top so that you wouldn't have to scroll all the way back up to the top of the comments to get to the next section.
(Why do I always feel like Dorothy approaching the Wizard when I ask for things like this?...)
Ska always makes me think of Skiffle, not because of the music but because of the association with the Beatles and beat music and because the names are somewhat similar. See Free Association.
Also called mirepoix in classic French cooking, the aromatic vegetables are generally considered to be onions, celery, and carrots. In Cajun cooking, the trinity consists of onions, celery, and peppers.
Well, I can't let that slack bastard get ahead of me. Thank you, reesetee. Only ten thousand more and I'll be in your ballpark, assuming you stop contributing immediately.
John's new image search feature is particularly informative and entertaining for most of the words on this list. See rattlesnake grass, for instance. For an example of a WeirdNET-worthy non sequitur, though, see prairie satin.
I have, Treeseed. It was a cathartic experience for me--one of those times that you look at something in a completely different and transforming way. It's not just grass...
My favorite was about a prince looking for the best thing in life and finding it in a loaf of brown bread hidden inside a tree. I'd love to find that one again...
Seeing undulant immediately reminded me of this word, possibly because I was watching a moose cross my driveway just a few minutes ago... See Free Association.
Living in Seattle in the mid/late seventies, we were just beginning to see bumper stickers saying "Don't Californicate Washington." Sadly, no one paid attention...
April Stevens' use of sotto voce on Teach Me Tiger got her banned from many radio stations because her whispered moans were considered too "suggestive."
An amusing song that should have been banned simply because it was so bad.
Hot Rod Lincoln by Commander Cody and the Lost Planet Airmen. I guess you could also count lincoln even though neither actually refers to a boy's name...
I love that song, c_b, as well as just about every other song they ever recorded. Listening to the Everly Brothers was like the proverbial light bulb for me in terms of understanding what vocal harmony is.
A cover band that plays songs and usually affects the appearance of a specific band. My favorite tribute band name is "Hell's Belles," an all-female AC/DC cover band.
Essentially a living jukebox, cover bands play music made popular by other bands, thereby assuring the audience that there is no chance that they will hear anything original.
It can work both ways, reesetee. When the vendor didn't give the patron his change back, the patron complained about it. The vendor replied "Change comes from within."
You never know how close you may be to true enlightenment. The other day, I saw a guy walk up to a hot dog vendor and say "Make me one with everything."
Wow. That word could do with a few well-placed apostrophes, as in fo'c's'le. Of course, that would destroy the compoundiness, replacing it with apostrophism.
Too cool! I was not aware that Zappa took the lyric from an earlier song. Freak Out probably influenced me more than any other album. Should I admit that?
I'm now off on a quest to locate Teddy and His Patches.
One of my most enduring memories is of exploring the dunes along North Carolina's Outer Banks and finding partially buried wooden shipwrecks, which we were certain were pirate ships. See Free Association.
I thought you might be interested in this article from Mental Floss on the backstories of many classic toys, including the The Mysto Erector Structural Steel Builder, now known as the Erector Set. The article also includes the lowdown on Mr. Potato Head, the Slinky, and Lincoln Logs, which, it seems, were not named after Abe.
Treeseed, I'll read anything Larry Niven writes--although I'll have to admit that the Ringworld series got a bit bogged down in details toward the end. If it has, in fact, ended.
You might not be aware that Delightful Ejaculations is a public list. You can enter your own words there. I hope you claim Mama Pajama! I love that one--the only place I have ever heard it used is the film Mystery Men, which I adore. (And Paul Simon's Me and Julio Down By the School Yard.)
"It has been covered by Blues Project, Cactus, Michael Chapman, Blue Cheer, Ray Condo, Rick Derringer, Georgie Fame, The Kingston Trio, John Mayall, Johnny Winter and others."
I wouldn't generally expect to see Johnny Winter and the Kingston Trio in the same list.
In second grade, my son's teacher had a stuffed bear named Shortstop in her classroom that the students were allowed to take home periodically. See Free Association.
William Faulkner decides to pen a sweeping saga of three families in the American South during the Civil War, but gives up after the plot becomes too convoluted.
Changing the pitch of a single syllable of a lyric as the song is being sung. Think of the syllable "o" in the word "gloria" in Angels We Have Heard On High.
The transition between the deeper, more powerful notes of the "chest voice" (a.k.a. chest register) and the higher, more breathy "head voice" (head register). Some singing styles--e.g., bel canto, focus on smoothing out this transition. Others--e.g., yodeling-- emphasize it.
From Wikipedia: Bel canto singing characteristically focuses on perfect evenness throughout the voice, skillful legato, a light upper register, tremendous agility and flexibility, and a certain lyric, "sweet" timbre. Operas of the style feature extensive and florid ornamentation, requiring much in the way of fast scales and cadenzas. Bel canto emphasizes technique rather than volume: an exercise said to demonstrate its epitome involves a singer holding a lit candle to her mouth and singing without causing the flame to flicker.
A vocal style of overtone singing in which the singer manipulates pitch harmonics to produce several tones at once. Accomplished singers can sing two or three completely different vocal lines, in essence harmonizing with themselves.
An intriguing modern example is here. Authentic Tuvan examples may be found here. That's just one guy singing...
A type of overtone singing common in death metal and related musical genres, produced by forcing air across the vocal cords while tightening the throat resulting in a low, guttural growl.
Hmmm...we've already established that yarb and arby are the same person (see yeppers and gemsbok). And now, reesetee and treeseed...and you never really see john and uselessness together...
Would it help if I confessed that I am chained_bear?
I didn't realize there was a Wodehouse book of the same name. It has been so long since I've read one, they kind of all blend together to me. Kind of like the Boxcar Children, for a real blast from the past...
Ah. Not surprised that you haven't heard of it. Not a very good book (Betty Smith, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn), made into a sappy movie in the early seventies. My family knew the author as I was growing up.
Jimmy Mayo, Peter Scheffler, Chris Cramer and I used to meet up every day after school and decide who was going to ride which horse home that day. Then we'd gallop along home, leaping creeks and...
Well, seanahan, they move to the suburbs and...ummm...get jobs for which they have to get up every...ummm....morning. You see, it's a play on Joy in the Morning, which...
Would it help if you knew which list this was part of?
A young street performer travels the country trying to make a living channeling Marcel Marceau but finds his earnings limited to a few coins here and there.
A California family, concerned about their son's mental stability, make a site visit to an asylum in Pendleton, Orgeon to decide on the possibility of his placement there. On meeting Nurse Ratched and Randle, however, they decide against committing their son and return home.
Bigger Thomas, a poor African American living on Chicago's south side, accidentally kills a white woman but he has unflappable faith in the ability of the American justice system to understand his case and exonerate him.
Sebastian has been boasting about his family's palatial home. Charles convinces Sebastian to visit but he soon discovers it's merely a ramshackle hovel.
For trivia buffs, the Coral Castle was the location for two of the very worst movies I have ever seen: The Wild Women of Wongo and the truly indescribable Nude on the Moon. I'm a Z-movie fanatic but even I have trouble watching these.
Carl and Annie fall deeply in love, get married despite everyones' objections, move to the suburbs and find clerical employment in a furniture supplier's warehouse.
Charlie was like "It was the best of times" and Syd was like "It was the worst of times" and they were both like "That is so totally cool that you would say that" but when they both got the hots for the same guy Charlie was like "Whoa, that came out of nowhere" and Syd was all "As if" and pretty soon they were both like "What-EVER."
In a poorly-received sequel to his more famous novel, Crichton documents the problems encountered in the cleanup of hundreds of dead bodies littering the streets of Piedmont, Arizona.
Harry "Slowhand" Feldman, aspiring mohel from Kenosha, WI, finds no solace in the complete lack of a Jewish community and takes off in the hope of finding himself.
States ruled by authoritarian regimes that severely restrict human rights, sponsor terrorism, and seek to proliferate weapons of mass destruction. They are generally considered a threat to world stability.
"After the cold war, we labeled our potential adversaries "rogue nations"--violent, lawless, willing to trample the weak and ignore international law and morality to enforce their will. Now, in the vote at the UN, in the headlines of papers across Europe, in the planning of countries large and small, there is a growing consensus that the world's most destructive rogue nation is the most powerful country of them all"
Jerome Kerviel, SocGen Bank, France. Created an international securities crisis in January 2008 by hiding billions of dollars of bad financial transactions.
A wave that poses significant danger to ships at sea. Defined as a wave whose height is more than twice the significant wave height (SWH), which is defined as the mean of the largest third of waves in a wave record; a.k.a a really big wave.
A calculating device with sliding scales that can perform a range of mathematical and scientific calculations, including logarithms, roots, powers, exponentials. The modern form appeared in 1859 as an artillery calculator. Slide rules were in common use until electronic calculators appeared in the 1960s. See Calculating Devices.
1820, France. It sounds like a device from a Philip Pullman novel, but it was the first commercially successful mechanical calculator. Thomas de Colmar used the Leibniz Wheel to produce a machine that could add, subtract, multiply and divide. It was in popular use for one hundred years. See Calculating Devices.
1801, France. Not really a calculating machine, but this device used a punchcard mechanism to automate the weaving of cloth. Different punchcards produced different patterns. When the device was introduced, French weavers took to the streets to protest the threat to their livelihood--beginning a French tradition that continues to this day... See Calculating Devices.
1674, Germany. Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz invented a device that used a special type of gear called the Stepped Drum or Leibniz wheel, a cylinder with nine bar-shaped teeth along its length. He named his machine the Staffelwalze or the Stepped Reckoner. The machine could add, subtract, multiply, divide, and even evaluate square roots by a series of additions. See Calculating Devices.
1645, France. Blaise Pascal invented a mechanical calculator (also called the Arithmetique) that could add and subtract. Because the machine was so complex and was prone to jamming (running, as it did, an early version of Windows), Pascal was able to sell only a dozen machines. See Calculating Devices.
1623, Germany. Wilhelm Schickard invented a device called the Speeding Clock or the Calculating Clock. The device could add and subtract six-digit numbers and was used by Johannes Kepler to calculate astronomical tables. For this, Wilhelm Schickard was considered by some to be the "Father of Computer Age." (But see antikythera mechanism for an much earlier mechanical calculator.) See Calculating Devices.
1614, Scotland. John Napier created a device, called Napier's bones that performed multiplications by doing a series of additions (which was a lot easier to do) and divisions as a series of subtraction as well as square and cube roots. See Calculating Devices.
Approx. 100 BC, found on a shipwreck near Crete. The earliest example of an analog computer. More than 30 gears and writings that are believed to have been used to calculate the motion of the sun and the moon against a background of fixed stars. No one knows who made the object or why the technology was lost for over 1000 years. See Calculating Devices.
From the Belgian Congo. The 20,000-year-old bone revealed that early civilization had mastered arithmetic series and even the concept of prime numbers. See Calculating Devices.
From Swaziland, approximately 350,000 years old. The bone has a series of 29 notches that were deliberately cut to help ancient bushmen calculate numbers and perhaps also measure the passage of time. It is considered the oldest known mathematical artifact. See Calculating Devices.
Charles Babbage, 1882. Composed of 25,000 parts, weighed 15 tons (13,600 kg) and stood 8 feet (2.4 m) high. It was never completed, and Babbage left to pursue another idea, a more complex Analytical Engine, which could be programmed using punch cards. See Calculating Devices.
I became curious about the word in high school because a friend of mine thought Lennon was singing "Go cook a Jew." I actually wrote to Apple Corps to get the real lyrics so I could convince him otherwise. Ironically, he was Jewish...
Wait. People intentionally squeeze their eyeballs? I can't even stand the thought of touching them. I don't wear contacts because I'm afraid that they'll migrate around to the back, sever my optic nerves, and my eyeballs will fall out.
You know, madeupical words from songs would make a great list. Want to take a stab at it? You've already got two of my favorites--this one and pompatus.
Me again, with the same old observation about images and videos on Wordie. Lord knows I love them, and I frequently link to them, but I avoid embedding them in my posts because this is Wordie, and it's supposed to be like Flickr but without the pictures, right? If it's just me, please let me know and I'll never comment on this again, but I really love the simple, uncluttered look of words on a page, sans images.
Really--I'll let this be if it's not an issue for any other Wordies, and no ill will is intended toward anyone.
Asativum--I think you forgot to close an italics tag in your post on palindrome. On the comments page, everything after your post appears italicized, to me at least.
This term dredged up a memory that I had long repressed. Unshelled Brazil nuts, which we always got in our Christmas stockings growing up in the South, were called nigger toes. It was many years before I realized that they were actually called Brazil nuts.
A compound extracted from Irish moss (a type of seaweed) that is used in puddings, milk shakes and ice cream to stabilize and keep color and flavor even. See Still Hungry?
A compound which is extracted from algae and used in puddings, milk shakes and ice cream to make these foods creamier and thicker and to extend shelf life. See Still Hungry?
Like plate coverage, but this term refers to how completely a given food product covers the bun on which it is served. Different brands of chicken breasts seem to vie with each other for the best bun coverage since they are not uniformly shaped--at least, before processing. See Still Hungry?
Plate coverage refers to the apparent volume of food received by a customer for a given cost. From one online journal:
"Since a serving of curlicue fries inherently includes a large volume of air, it appears larger than a like weight of conventional french fries. For example, the plate coverage provided by four ounces of conventional fries may require only three ounces of helical fries. This differential can be translated into higher profit margins for the retailer or can be passed on as more generous servings to the consumers."
Degree to which the sample deforms before rupturing when biting with molars. I love the specificity of this term. What about the bicuspids? See Still Hungry?
The term used for methods that will help to maintain the quality of a food product by changing the atmosphere inside its retail package. For example, reduce the availability of oxygen or manipulate the levels of carbon dioxide. It produces a gas mix to maximize shelf life. See Still Hungry?
Aren't screensavers supposed to do their work when you're not looking at your screen? So who cares what they look like, or even if they are there at all?
There's always room for respectful disagreement over musical tastes, reesetee. But not here. This song blows chunks and it in no way fits any criteria for good songs, defined here as "songs that I like."
Actually, no. That's some sort of Christmas bastardization of the original song. This is the the one I am referring to, performed by the Royal Guardsmen who seem to be channeling Freddie and the Dreamers. View at your own risk.
There is NO song worse than this one in the history of music on any planet in any galaxy. Kent Lavoie should be shot, as should anyone who ever plays this song again.
A late 19th century bowed instrument that is a cross between a violin and a ukulele. I was surprised to find this short video of one being play on YouTube.
I've got one! It was my mother's back in the day. Very popular in the big band era. And, one was featured in the great 50's B movie "The Giant Gila Monster." Bet you didn't know that...
I made my mother fix oatmeal almost every day so that I could make all of the crafts that the Captain made from the cylindrical containers. See The Captain's Place.
Hey kids! Let's fill in the rest of mi-vox's profile!
mi-vox's favorite word: poshest
mi-vox's least favorite word: vibrate mode
onomatopoeia that best describes mi-vox: doh!
mi-vox is a: spam-generating robot
seeking a: way to get traffic to his site since the product itself doesn't seem to be generating any interest, possibly because everyone already owns an ipod
also on: every other social networking site with lax spam filters
Moon pies are definitely not limited to the northeast. They were a staple snack when I was growing up in South/North Carolina, usually consumed with an RC Cola.
I was actually served one of these once--at least a variation of it. At the original Red Robin in Seattle (right down near Lake Union--I think it's still there) I had a hamburger patty with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, and a pickle as a dessert. It was surprisingly edible, but I was also a poor graduate student so I probably would have eaten anything...
This may be opening old wounds, but check here for a mind-muddling orgy of misspellings and strange grammatical twists (including the ever-popular "random" use of "quotes").
Ah--take me home! Ocracoke--one of the finest places on earth. Lizard Lick and Frog Level have been mentioned elsewhere on Wordie. Then there's Saxapahaw, Maiden, Little Switzerland...
Probably a contraction for "nary a one," as in "I went looking for ramps yesterday but there was nar'n to be had." This is commonly heard in eastern and central North Carolina but I have never seen it in print. I have no idea if this is how it's spelled. (Or should I say spelt?) It rhymes with "cairn."
You can find the spot on Google Earth, reseetee. Go to 68Ëš 27' 37.42" N 149Ëš 16' 13.60" W and face north. Level out the terrain a bit and you'll see a gap between two peaks with an alluvial outwash. That's the spot.
EDIT: I should have said "face south" and not north, as the original post suggested.
I think some of us (myself included) may have been reacting as much to the very obvious spam from ridesearch earlier the same day as we were to metaphotography's post. When your username is the name of your first post and your website, the tendency is to dismiss the post as spam even though it may not be.
I'd echo the apologies from other Wordies, but I think assuming your post was spam was an easy mistake to make given that you never defined metaphotography or explained your image.
I'd look forward to more information about your topic, and perhaps some links to examples.
A bit of evidence that many current Southernisms hark back to Elizabethan English:
"Tho' ye subjoct be but a fart, yet will this tedious sink of learning pondrously phillosophize. Meantime did the foul and deadly stink pervade all places to that degree, yt never smelt I ye like, yet dare I not to leave ye presence, albeit I was like to suffocate."
I actually saw this happen once, in ANWR during a hellacious thunder storm. It was the most awesome sight I have ever seen. The lake was at the top of an 800 ft. precipice, blocked by snow and ice. The storm caused it to give way. The resulting snow/ice/water/boulder slide was indescribable. The maps of the area changed after that.
Two ironies: Thirty minutes earlier we had been directly under that precipice, and I had put my video camera away due to the storm.
"Sr W.--Most gracious maisty, 'twas I that did it, but indeed it was so poor and frail a note, compared with such as I am wont to furnish, yt in sooth I was ashamed to call the weakling mine in so august a presence. It was nothing--less than nothing, madam--I did it but to clear my nether throat; but had I come prepared, then had I delivered something worthy. Bear with me, please your grace, till I can make amends."
Blackeyed peas (or in some circles blackeye peas) cooked with rice. Traditionally served on New Year's Day along with ham and greens for good luck during the next year. Blackeyed peas represent coins, the greens represent folding money, and ham symbolizes good luck, according to my mom...
We'll have to make sure and stop by Show Low, Arizona on that trip, bilby. It's right on Deuce of Clubs Road, down below Holbrook. A beautiful spot, indeed...
Jennaren--among the many ways I disappointed my father was not going there, as did he and most of my family on that side. But I heard a lot about it. And Charlottesville is one of my favorite places on earth.
You can stop sobbing now, bilby--UVA is the University of Virginia.
I suspect, bilby, that it's because the act it describes is so singularly rare. We don't have a word like "deportification" to describe the more common occurrence of throwing people out of doors, for example. (Although, see deponticate...]
I'm with you, SoG. I love the lights, the mythology, the music, the celebrations, and being with family. (What's not to like?) I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and I enjoy it when then wish me the same. I don't believe in supernatural events, but I love stories about them.
Thanks to michaelchang, mollydot, and mollusque for postscript, postern, and preposterous. I'm going to skip michaelchang's suggestion of post-production because I wanted to avoid words created by adding post- so that the list wouldn't have 3,000 post-electric-grunge-type entries. (Post-haste is an exception, since it doesn't mean "after haste.")
Comments by skipvia
Show previous 200 comments...
skipvia commented on the word deformed man lavatory
See this Wired article for a fascinating article on the evolution of English in the Far East--and maybe the rest of the world as well.
June 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the list greetings
Not...Hoboken! Sir--what about the Geneva Convention?
Hey--they use Compaqs at Wordie?
June 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the list greetings
Sir--I would be derelict in my duty not to go in when provoked so aggressively. I mean, come on--things I say to people? I surprised no one went in before me.
Speaking of which--thanks for the cover, reesetee... :-(
June 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word hello kitty scarification
That's so...adorable!
June 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the list greetings
Permission to speak freely, sir?
June 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the list greetings
I CAN'T STAND IT ANY LONGER! I'm going in! Cover me...
June 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the list greetings
I'm giving it one more day, reesetee. One more day, and then all hell breaks loose.
June 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the list real-names
Bilby, FA and DC--I've made this an open list so that you'll get credit for your wonderful contributions. Have a field day!
The Butt Brothers?
June 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the list greetings
Must...resist...Wordie Treatment...
June 23, 2008
skipvia commented on the word double double
John, I was with you right up until I saw this picture of animal style fries. Does it remind you in any way of this image?
June 22, 2008
skipvia commented on the word eentsy-weentsy
It sounds like you're mixing up words from the refrain from Bryan Hyland's "Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Yellow Polka Dot Bikini," probably the greatest earworm ever produced.
Dang it...
June 22, 2008
skipvia commented on the word spoonerism
I understand the good Reverend once complained of addressing beery wenches each Sunday morning.
June 21, 2008
skipvia commented on the word penis bones
The empty links were here, but now they're gone--so we can resume our discussion of penis bones.
Unless we've pretty much exhausted that topic.
June 21, 2008
skipvia commented on the word a 2006 calendar
I'm saving mine!
June 21, 2008
skipvia commented on the word penis bones
See also oosik.
June 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the list what-the-h
Wow. Catarrh is a new one on me. Thanks kewpid, reesetee and bilby. In your collective honor I've made the list public.
June 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word whippersnapper
Well, I guess if the shoe fits...
June 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the list something-vishy
I suppose vicious would fit on this list if vitiate does, but I'll leave that up to you.
It's really difficult to come up with possibilities for this list--a good quality in a list, I always say.
June 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word dovish
Docile, easy-going, dove-like.
June 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word whippersnapper
Have you ever heard this word used when it was not preceded by "young?"
June 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word finger of disapproval
Well, that explains why you rarely see anyone younger than 60 use it. We can't catch the disaprovees (aka "young whippersnappers") any longer and actually beat them with a stick, so we have to pantomime it.
June 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word fistshake
See also finger of disapproval.
June 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word finger of disapproval
Shaking your index finger at someone while simultaneously frowning to indicate your disapproval of what they are doing. Onset of FoD in humans seems to occur at about age 60.
June 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the list phth
Done, Pro. Many thanks. I think I'll just open this list up.
June 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word diphthong
Thanks for the new fodder for this list, jmp.
June 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word perry como rocks
That is a joke, right?
*please please please say yes*
June 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word perry como rocks
Much in the same way that Pat Boone rocks, reesetee?
Have you ever heard Pat Boone's version of Tutti Fruitti?
June 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word glam rock
So that's the source of my heartburn, bilby? :-)
June 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word coasting
The practice of sailboats traveling south along the US Atlantic coast to travel close to the shore to catch the southerly Labrador current and avoid the northerly Gulf Stream current farther offshore.
"Coasting" has an interesting double sense here--to coast along with a current and to stay close to the coast.
June 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word glam rock
Someday I'm going to start a list: Mistakes I Have Made on Wordie. I could start with Obstinant Buffaloes. Or maybe pimiento load.
It would be glorious.
June 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word glam rock
Not related to groceries, folks. Just another embarrassing mistake.
June 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word glam rock
Interesting description in that it says nothing about the music, only about it's performance context.
That's because the music sucked.
June 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word enophile
Or of the Eno River in North Carolina, my old stomping grounds.
June 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word strop
"Yes, a hat. A lion taming hat. A hat with 'lion tamer' on it. I got it at Harrods. And it lights up saying 'lion tamer' in great big neon letters, so that you can tame them after dark when they're less stroppy."
Vocational Guidance Counselor Sketch, Monty Python
June 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word glendaizer
What I'd like is a picketizer--a device that would make me sound like Wilson Pickett.
Or maybe a charlesizer...or a brownizer.
No...wait--a reddingizer!
June 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word drescherizer
But...why?
June 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word i'mpossible
I'd love to improve my English to something approaching yours, pro...
June 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word wulm
I can't find a reference to it anywhere, so let's just use Wordie to officially coin it. Those little bubbles need a name, and "wulm" has a nice collective ring to it--e.g., "That's a very active wulm you have going there, bard. Get the teabags ready."
June 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word smithereens
As is varmint. :-)
June 17, 2008
skipvia commented on the word brangelina
Thank you, reesetee. That's a lovely sentiment.
Strange, but lovely... :-)
June 17, 2008
skipvia commented on the list doom-words
Four more years?
June 17, 2008
skipvia commented on the list common-english-words-that-are-also-first-names
I guess I missed ralph as well.
June 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word grapevine
"People say believe half of what you see
Son, and none of what you hear..."
-Marvin Gaye
Good advice.
June 15, 2008
skipvia commented on the list common-english-words-that-are-also-first-names
So, ptery, it's either Lance, Peg, Chip, Chuck, Stone, Rock, Bay, Buck, Max, Dash, Josh, Sally, Will, Mark, Jimmy, Rick, Wade, Sue, Gore, Pierce, Tab, or Ward?
Well, that narrows it down a bit. :-)
June 15, 2008
skipvia commented on the word brangelina
OK. Since you asked...
If Annie Oakley married Don Juan, divorced him and married Ian Holm, she'd be Annie Juan Holm.
Or how about:
If Faith Hill married Dr. No, divorced him and married Dudley Moore, she'd be Faith No Moore.
But that's it. Really.
June 15, 2008
skipvia commented on the word brangelina
From whence cometh most of my inspiration, bilby. I'll stop now.
June 15, 2008
skipvia commented on the word brangelina
Please...help...me...
If Anna Olson married John Gotti, divorced him and married Caspara Davida, she'd be Anna Gotti Davida.
(belated earworm alert)
June 15, 2008
skipvia commented on the list double-double-2
Perhaps if we all sang a rousing triple triple chorus of "Chain of Fools."
Here we go: "Chain chain chaaaiiiiinnn..."
June 15, 2008
skipvia commented on the word brangelina
Can't stop...
If Sarah Brightman married Scott Dockter, divorced him and married Ruben Hinojosa, she'd be Sarah Dockter Hinojosa.
June 14, 2008
skipvia commented on the word brangelina
You may regret encouraging me on this.
If Dae Kim married Darren O'Day, divorced him and married Sadaharu Oh, she'd be Dae O'Day Oh.
"Hey, Mr. Tally Man..."
June 14, 2008
skipvia commented on the word brangelina
And now from the "pouring salt in old wounds" department:
If Kaye Umansky married Wally Schirra, divorced him and married Georges Seurat, she'd be Kaye Schirra Seurat.
Whatever will be, will be, I guess.
June 14, 2008
skipvia commented on the list double-double-2
*sigh* I love the Wordie Treatment...
June 14, 2008
skipvia commented on the list any-words-list-its-open
I don't understand, Pro. When I added pimiento load, a downy woodpecker flew past my window. Then, when I added phthisical, it started to rain. Maybe you're not looking hard enough.
Or maybe you're not using enough exclamation points!!
June 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the list any-words-list-its-open
Its open!!! Add "anything" you want!! I'm going to add phthisical right now. Watch!
June 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word baby mama
Exactly! With Fox News, you get the best of both worlds!
That's real journalism, all right.
June 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word features
Not to be too contrary, but I'd opt for just the opposite of gangerh's suggestion for expanding the "Most Citations..." and other lists pertaining to specific Wordies. Why not eliminate them altogether and focus solely on words?
June 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word plutoid
The new, unfortunate-sounding name for dwarf planets like, umm, Pluto. See this news article for the rationale.
June 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word yumpin yiminy
That would be Wally Walrus, an acquaintance of Woody Woodpecker.
Woody Woodpecker would be a great name for a porn actor.
June 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word spelling
Sign, professionally printed, in the Payless Rental Car return lane at the Denver airport:
Please leave "keys" in the car.
You know--keys. *wink wink nudge nudge*
I don't get it...
June 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the list words-that-shouldn-t-be-used-on-a-first-date
I'd probably avoid any use of the word "tongue" on a first date, reesetee.
June 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word gong gong
That actually makes a lot more sense than Intelligent Design.
June 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the list words-that-shouldn-t-be-used-on-a-first-date
And threesome could actually work in your favor, given the right proclivities...
June 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the list words-that-shouldn-t-be-used-on-a-first-date
I had forgotten all about that embarrassing typo (pimiento load), yarb. Thanks for bringing it back up, so to speak... :-)
June 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word toejam
That's it, reesetee. I should have known you'd already have it on a list somewhere.
June 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word toejam
Interesting, VO. We always called it "sleep" when I was growing up, but I assumed we were using a madeupical euphemism of sorts.
June 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word toejam
C'mon, reesetee. You know you love it. :-) Anyway, here's a list.
What's that stuff that cements your eyelids together after a long sleep called?
June 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word toejam
You know, we have the makings of a very good list here--something having to do with, ummm, interesting bodily accretions. We already have toejam, fromunda cheese, earwax, pus, and smegma. Jolly!
If ever there were a word that sounded exactly like what it is, it has to be smegma.
June 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word toejam
Kind of reminds me of fromunda cheese...
June 7, 2008
skipvia commented on the word sphendone
A semicircular part (as of an amphitheater) or place. Picked this up from the national spelling bee.
I would have missed it.
May 31, 2008
skipvia commented on the word ventifact
A rock formation that has been shaped, polished, or abraded by wind-driven sand. Picked up today at the American Natural History Museum in NYC.
May 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the word dork out
If you wanted to feed cats what they really craved, those cans would be filled with live mice and dead birds with those mysterious little entrails that are always left at your door already removed.
Which, as far as I'm concerned, is far less disgusting than Tuscan dinners for cats.
May 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word waldorf
"Celery, apples, walnuts, grapes...in a mayonnaise sauce."
See Free Association.
April 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word crunchwave
I know what you mean, U. There are many joys related to being on Wordie. There are also many related to not being here.
But seeing you back makes me think that maybe I'll hang around more. Maybe.
April 26, 2008
skipvia commented on the word pumpernickel
I love this! I'm going to eat only pumpernickel bread from now on, just so I can say "fart goblin."
April 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word anagram
Many thanks, oroboros. I haven't laughed that hard in some time.
April 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the list the-bucolic-abattoir
Thanks again, sionnach. In your honor, I opened the list up for everyone. Have a field day!
April 23, 2008
skipvia commented on the list the-bucolic-abattoir
Duly added, sionnach. I've let this list lie fallow for too long.
April 22, 2008
skipvia commented on the word malcuntent
Wouldn't I need a mirror for that, bilby?
April 22, 2008
skipvia commented on the user treeseed
Thanks for the Music Genome Project tip, Treeseed. I'm enthralled...
April 22, 2008
skipvia commented on the word vegetarian
Exactly, plethora. Like an Ed Wood movie. I believe even sionnach appreciates the beauty that is Ro-Man.
April 21, 2008
skipvia commented on the word vegetarian
Who needs thylacines when you've got Angbangbang? That's even better than Uranus!
Speaking of which..."Our last probe has detected sulfurous fumes rising from Uranus."
I just never get tired of those...
April 21, 2008
skipvia commented on the word vegetarian
You know, what we need here is a good Uranus joke. Like "There are strange radio signals emanating from Uranus," or "We need to send a probe deep into Uranus," or "I'd like to explore Uranus more once we've safely touched down."
You know, something like that...
April 21, 2008
skipvia commented on the word homedebtor
From this blog, an apparent neologism that refers to someone who owes more on his home than it is actually worth.
April 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word synaesthesia
When I am improvising (and not simply playing from muscle memory), I "see" landscapes with different configurations and textures. Going in a certain direction causes me to play one way, going in another direction results in something different. I can "hear" what it will sound like before I go there. It sometimes takes me while to reach that zone where I perceive landscapes. On a good night, I get there very quickly.
Musicians are strange...
April 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word luncheon meat
Don't go here. I warned you...
April 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word romanus est!
No, Prolagus, but it's a great movie...
April 17, 2008
skipvia commented on the word pope
The Pope and the Dope.
April 17, 2008
skipvia commented on the word skipvia stinger
Geez...I might have to take up drinking.
April 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word fui in excelsis, sed numquam fui mecum
I hope part of that translates as "blows dead rats," because that's what that song does...
April 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word afflatus
I think you're referring to Firmament-Clogging Rotteness. Not a general list, though--these are from a specific source, so to speak...
April 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word quiet'n
As in "Y'all quiet'n down so I can listen to General Hospital." Commonly used throughout the southern US.
Actually, I'm not at all sure how this should be spelled. I've always assumed it was a contraction of "quiet on," but I don't recall ever seeing it written. It is pronounced like triton (or chiton, for mollusque's benefit).
April 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the user ofravens
Hello, ofravens. My little part of Alaska is in the Interior, near Fairbanks in a small community named Ester--so it's not likely that you'll pass closely by on your cruise. Unfortunately, it's also not very likely that you'll see an aurora since there is so much daylight in June. You can read a book outside at 2:00 am in June at my house. (And I often do, in my hammock...) In the Southeast on your cruise, it gets dark enough for a couple of hours that you might see them. Come back in November if you want to live under them every night.
You'll see lots of ravens, though. :-)
April 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word microsoft employees
Q: How many Microsoft employees does it take to change a light bulb?
A: None. Bill Gates simply declares Dark(â„¢) as the new standard.
April 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word last ditch effort
Also "last-ditch effort;" a final recourse, usually to prevent an unwanted outcome.
March 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word last paradise
Generally an indicator of impending commercial development.
March 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word the last shall be the first
The ultimate revenge, I suppose...
March 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word last frontier
I've heard this in reference to Alaska, the earth's oceans, and space.
March 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word the last empire
Usually refers to China.
March 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word last gasp
It's over, dude...
March 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word last resort
The final alternative for providing aid or solving a problem.
March 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word last minute
Completed in a hurry in order to meet a deadline.
March 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word last straw
Presumably the one that broke the proverbial camel's back.
March 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word last man standing
The person prevailing in a difficult or protracted struggle.
March 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word last man on earth
As in "I wouldn't wear that if I were the last man on earth," or "I wouldn't go out with him if he were the last man on earth."
March 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word last fool in the boat
Heard on NPR, describing the desire not to be the last person inventing in Bear/Stearns before it collapsed.
March 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word krakenstein
Looks like our thoughts crossed there, samoritan.
March 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word krakenstein
This may help. See kraken.
March 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the list first-crush
I'm not going there, palooka. :-)
March 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the list first-crush
Isn't it...ummm...obvious?
March 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the list first-crush
Annette Funicello; one of the original Mouseketeers. My infatuation ended when she started making beach movies with Frankie Avalon and with the advent of Elke Sommer...
March 15, 2008
skipvia commented on the word fundamental
People always wonder why I chuckle when they call themselves "fundamental Christians."
March 15, 2008
skipvia commented on the list squiddy
I guess I just don't get the squid thing...
*wondering what I'm missing*
March 14, 2008
skipvia commented on the list collective-nouns
There are a few other lists that cover similar ground: Obstinate Buffaloes, Prides, Not Prejudice, and Murders of Crows. I may have missed some.
March 14, 2008
skipvia commented on the word sausage spokesmodel
I just couldn't let this phrase go unWordied. Found at Blender.com.
"How sure was MCA that slinky Irish teen Carly Hennessy was going to be a gargantuan pop star? So sure that in 1999 they staked the former Denny’s sausage spokesmodel with a $100,000 advance, $5,000 a month in living expenses and an apartment in Marina Del Rey, California, spending roughly $2.2 million in all on her 2001 debut, Ultimate High."
March 14, 2008
skipvia commented on the word rapture of the neat
Coined by my favorite cartoonist Roz Chast, this describes the sense of well-being I am experiencing having just cleaned up my desk.
March 14, 2008
skipvia commented on the word anthropomorphize
Perhaps she should be looking for a new line of work...
March 14, 2008
skipvia commented on the word clamdiggers
These were also popular in the 50s for boys due to a brief national infatuation with calypso music (and Harry Belafonte in particular.) They had fake rope belts and stripes down the outside of the leg. I have some embarrassing pictures of myself in them on the first day of school in about 1958. And no, I won't share them...
March 14, 2008
skipvia commented on the word luncheon meats
See luncheon. Also see the Fake Food and Luncheon Meats lists.
March 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word haughty couture
And now, coldspire, you have witnessed what we like to call the wordie treatment.
March 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word haughty couture
Reminds me of pimiento load, urinal etiquitte, and many others for which I am responsible.
When reesetee mentioned that "it happens to the best of us," I think he meant me in particular...
March 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the list wirds-of-a-feather
I love the name of this list, as well as the contents.
What about eagle-eyed and legal eagle? Play chicken? Naked as a jaybird?
"The sun isn't yellow, it's chicken."
Bob Dylan, Tombstone Blues
March 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word haughty couture
See the discussion on haught couture.
I love it when someone else spells something wrong. That's usually my job. :)
March 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word haught couture
Haughty couture works for me, though.
March 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word a tree glows in brooklyn
Ooh, I sense a good story here. Want to share? :-)
March 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word a tree glows in brooklyn
Something goes horribly wrong at the Con Edison nuclear reactor.
March 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word to sire with love
Mr. Thackeray tries to explain to his students that sex isn't just about reproduction.
It's also a movie. Do we need a new list?
March 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word apocalypse not
There's a war going on, but Dick Cheney valiantly finds a better way to serve his country through a series of five student deferments and a carefully planned pregnancy.
I know it's a movie, but sionnach got away with it.
March 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word first dude
The popular title given to the husband of our (Alaska's) current governor. He's a snow machine racer.
March 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word squarf
Hey! I think I have that movie in my collection.
March 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word segue
See segway for a related discussion.
March 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word vittersweet
It looks like Eliot Spitzer has given us yet another vittersweet moment to savor.
March 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the list the-porn-birds
I love this list and wonder how I missed it for three months. I'm still chuckling over thunder-pumper.
Don't forget the tufted titmouse...
March 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word heart of wordie
Superb, yarb. Just perfect...
March 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the list panvocalics
Jeez, mollusque. If you can't find them, what chance do we have?
Still, I'm off to look...
March 11, 2008
skipvia commented on the word features
One way around the "dog" and "dogs" problem is to tag your word(s) with both. Same with nautical, marine, maritime, sea, etc. Use 'em all...
March 11, 2008
skipvia commented on the word features
Another example to add on to yarb's and john's comments--the words on my Body Metaphors list are now tagged with anatomy, colloquialism, metaphor, body metaphors, and slang. The tags don't have to be literal--they can link your lists to other lists with even tangentially similar content. I'm anxious to see what other words have been tagged with "metaphor," for example.
I'm loving this...
March 11, 2008
skipvia commented on the word features
Bulk-tagging is a phenomenal upgrade, John. I just tagged all my lists. I'm definitely going to use tags more often as a search tool on Wordie.
Thanks for your quick response.
March 11, 2008
skipvia commented on the word penetentes
It depends on where you look, mollusque. The "e" version is from Spanish but it's the version many climbing books use. I thought it might make a nice monovocalic...
March 11, 2008
skipvia commented on the word penetentes
You avoid them when you can, and walk very carefully when you can't.
March 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the list denizens
We like to think that it sounds more like "asteroids" than "hemorrhoids..."
March 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word olive oil
Virgin made me think of extra-virgin olive oil. No, really. See Free Association.
March 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the list absquatulate-bloviate-clinchpoop
It's difficult to say brouhaha without laughing... :)
March 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the list firmament-clogging-rotteness
My pleasure, ofravens. I love your username. I live in Alaska where ravens are common. They loom large in Athabascan lore. Some of them nest near my house. It's astonishing how many sounds they can make, and how intelligent they are. I never pass up a chance to watch them.
March 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word features
Hey, John...could you provide a way to bulk-tag existing lists? For example, there are currently 187 untagged entries on one of my lists. I'd love to be able to apply a tag (or set of tags) to one of my lists--or other folks' lists, for that matter. I'm far less likely to open each of those entries to apply tags, but if I could do it all at once...
March 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word features
Tags can be an enormous benefit in tracking down words and conversations. I'm as guilty as anyone in terms of forgetting to provide them, but if we all took tags a bit more seriously we'd all benefit.
March 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word wide load
Amazing photo. Going around turns must require some fairly delicate choreography, if that term can be applied to trucks.
March 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the list o-ho
My pleasure. There are several thousand "o-matics" out there as well, but you probably don't want to go there.
I do love this list. "Will-o'-the-wisp" is such a beautifully evocative phrase.
March 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the list keep-on-truckin
This list reminds me that the toads will soon be showing up in Fairbanks...
March 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word toad
Also, a car being pulled by a camper or recreational vehicle for use away from the RV. Toads are a common sight in Alaska in the summer...
March 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word stope
Steps or shelves left around a mining site after the removal of ore-bearing dirt.
March 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word long tom
A long, narrow sluice box.
March 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word sluice box
An artificial channel with riffles along the bottom, set in a stream and fed with dirt or alluvium so that the dirt and lighter materials will wash away and the heavier gold will be trapped in the riffles. Commonly used by recreational miners.
March 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the list o-ho
How about "peg o' my heart?"
March 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word puckerbrush
Dense, often thorny brush that makes off-trail travel very difficult.
March 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the list o-ho
Shaquille O'Neal? (Just kidding, m...)
March 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the list denizens
Those of us that live in Ester, Alaska, call ourselves Esteroids.
March 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word wyomingite
Awkward. It sounds like sort sort of mineral. Perhaps folks from Wyoming should refer to themselves as The Wyominions.
March 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word neve penetentes
See penetentes.
March 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word penetentes
Sharp ice peaks formed when sunlight reflects off of small depressions in the snow cover, melting the snow unevenly and forming tall peaks. Typically found when traveling on a glacier. When these refreeze at night, they can become quite hard and sharp, making travel difficult. Climbers usually call them neve penetentes. Nice image here.
March 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the list violin-parts
Many similarities with the Luthier's Craft list.
March 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word zowie
My first reaction to "Zowie" would be to pronounce it as it's pronounced in Frank Zappa's "Wowie Zowie." Zowie should sound like "wow," not "Zoe."
"It's spelled Raymond Luxury Yacht, but it's pronounced Throat Warbler Mangrove..."
March 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word memberless
Mollusque, that reference always makes me cringe.
March 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word zowie
My understanding is that it's pronounced like "Zoey."
I would have gone with Chloe...
March 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word frisco
Actually, I think it was this image that was the proverbial straw for me. It's not coincidental that I added it to the puke bowl discussion.
I may not like Cheez Whiz, but I love the phrase Cheese Was.
March 7, 2008
skipvia commented on the word anisotropy
A wonderfully understandable article on the age of the universe as determined by the Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe is available here.
March 7, 2008
skipvia commented on the word heart of dorkness
A similar incident happened once on Wordie. See dork out.
March 7, 2008
skipvia commented on the word frisco
Eew. I mean, eeewwwwww.
March 7, 2008
skipvia commented on the word potamic
Interesting, c_b. I would have guessed that usage would be much older. Now I'm wondering about hippopotamus. Must go look up when that came into common usage...
Edit: About 1300, according to the Online Etymology Dictionary.
March 7, 2008
skipvia commented on the word frisco
Cheez Whiz? On a chessesteak? Say it ain't so, reesetee...
March 7, 2008
skipvia commented on the word cunt
See also coynte.
March 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word potamic
My guess is that it and Mesopotamia have something in common. :-) My other guess is that since Potomac comes from an Algonquin Indian word, any similarity is probably just a coincidence...
March 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word casual water
I can't stand golf, but I've always loved this term since I learned it from a golf-playing friend. From the Golf Rules dictionary:
Any temporary accumulation of water on the course (other than a water hazard) visible before or after the player takes his stance. It includes:
-snow and ice
-overflow from a water hazard if outside the hazard
-a pitch mark filled with water
It does not include:
-soft mushy ground
-water which appears when pressing a footmark down -dew and frost
-manufactured ice
-water on the putting green which was not visible when taking stance but which became visible when approaching the ball.
The player is entitled to relief when his ball lies in or touches casual water or when it is on the course and interferes with his stance or area of intended swing (or if the ball is on the putting green, his line of putt).
Fascinating...
March 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word segway
Nothing to apologize for, c_b. I had forgotten about my own list until yours showed up. They complement each other nicely.
March 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word shooting skip
Hey--imagine how I felt...
March 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the list •unexpected-pronunciation-now-with-public-access
There are a bunch of these on my Say What? list, but I'm too lazy to move most of them over. Added a few, though.
March 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word segway
You can embarrass yourself with gazebo as well...
March 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the list public-list-kill-the-wabbit
I won't comment on the appropriate use of "Daffy" in this image, but it's a nice Elmer Fuddism...
March 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the word frisco
I know what you mean, palooka. It's like when people call Fairbanks "Bear Flanks." Although, come to think of it, it kind of fits...
March 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the word rozzer
I'm delighted to know that rozzer is a vetted term. I remember a piece from Mad Magazine from a very long time ago that dealt with slang, and one of the example sentences was "It's crackers to slip a rozzer the dropsy in snide." (Translation: "It's crazy to pay off a cop in phony money.")
Why I can remember that and not some of my students' last names from last semester is a puzzle to me. (Do you want to know my 7th grade locker combination? I've got that...)
March 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the word segway
Since seque basically means a way to transition from one segment (of a topic, scene, etc.) to another, it's logical that you'd think it would be spelled segway. I learned the term in film school, back when we actually used film...
March 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the word segway
Actually, shouldn't this be segue? A Segway is a scooter of sorts.
March 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the word apparent
"Police were trying Tuesday to piece together the violent events inside a brick home where six people were found dead in an apparent mass shooting."
How many victims does it take to make it an obvious mass shooting?
March 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the list skeleton
I know how you feel, cricket. See urinal etiquitte for my latest blunder...
March 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word game
My son recently told me about a game that he and his friends call "The Game." The only rule is that if you think about the game, you lose. You're supposed to say "Oh crap" (or something appropriately similar depending on your surroundings) when this occurs, and everyone is on the honor system.
March 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the list •open-list-your-life-in-6-words
Here's my abridged version:
Born, waiting...
March 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word hexapus
A six-legged octopus. Really.
March 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word urinal etiquette
See the embarrassingly misspelled urinal etiquitte for a discussion.
March 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word urinal etiquitte
Hey, John. If there are enough of us, we could start a list. :-)
March 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word urinal etiquitte
Oops. Etiquette. Sorry. I typed it wrong...again...
March 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word urinal etiquitte
I should probably add that it was in the men's room of the Salt Lake City Airport...
March 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word urinal etiquitte
From ananova.com: "A New Zealander ended up in court after punching a man over a breach of urinal etiquette."
I have always suspected there was such a code. It would have helped me during an incident in which I once peed right next to Ted Kennedy in the Salt Lake City airport. I was going to make a pun about Chappaquiddick (there are just so many possibilities there) but I refrained.
March 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word obstinat
Isn't that missing an "n?" Oh...never mind.
March 3, 2008
skipvia commented on the word yes we have no bananas
Wow, gangerh. My first crush was Annette Funicello. Maybe we should have a list...
March 3, 2008
skipvia commented on the word suicide
That reminds me of an HP Lovecraft story in which the protagonist, having acquired the ability to peer into the future, sees himself lying helplessly in a vegetative state. To prevent this from happening, he decides to take his life by shooting himself in the head. The attempt is not successful, though--his wounds put him into a vegetative state...
March 3, 2008
skipvia commented on the word essence of cute
Is this you, palooka?
March 2, 2008
skipvia commented on the word dayside aurora
But during the noon darkness of Svalbard's winter, observers should be able to see the dayside aurora, which enter our atmosphere directly. Without the extra slingshot magnetic kick, these particles are less energetic, so produce a fainter, reddish glow.
I've never seen this. Must start looking. Full article here.
March 2, 2008
skipvia commented on the user mi-vox
HA! I had forgotten all about our spam-bot friend. I just love his lyrical (and LONG!) account of the difficulties of reading while trying to get a tan. You've got to hand it to a guy who takes the initiative in solving some of the great problems of our time.
March 2, 2008
skipvia commented on the word niggertoe
It's just a cruel word, isn't it Treeseed? No matter what the context.
March 2, 2008
skipvia commented on the word eww
Yep. It's a cool word. You can express varying degrees of disgust by adjusting the number of e's and w's. For example:
"Casu marzu? Eeeeewwwwwwww!"
Ah, English...
March 2, 2008
skipvia commented on the word niggertoe
It shouldn't, but it does. I can't think of another word that affects me like this. I suspect it's a product of my upbringing. It was always associated with hate or prejudice.
March 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word nigger toes
We always got a handful of Brazil nuts in our stockings at Christmas. That somehow makes the association even more painful.
March 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word niggertoe
See also nigger toes.
You know, most words don't bother me. They're just syllables. Nigger is not one of those. It still bothers me a lot.
March 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the list conversations-for-the-ages
C_B--I just spent a very pleasant hour rummaging through these old conversations. I had completely forgotten about dork out and several others. Thanks for collecting them in one place.
March 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word shoah
Hebrew for "holocaust" or "disaster." Quoted in the news recently as a threat from Israel regarding what will transpire in Gaza should Hamas continue shelling Israeli territory.
March 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word freegan
"People are strange."
Jim Morrison
March 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word vagina dentata
A truly...unique version of vagina dentata appeared in a 1959 Soviet science fiction film called Nebo Zovyot, a pioneering film that garnered some critical respect until Roger Corman bought it, recruited a young Francis Ford Coppola to rework it, and released it to American audiences as "Battle Beyond the Sun." That film is pretty awful, but when the battle between two monsters begins it's pretty difficult not to understand why "vagina dentata" is a keyword for this movie on IMDB.
March 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word vagina dentata
Agreed, seanahan. Great read, and one of the better names for a main character.
February 29, 2008
skipvia commented on the word joke
OK...Did you hear about the newlywed couple who didn't know the difference between vaseline and putty? All of their windows fell out.
February 29, 2008
skipvia commented on the word disregulated
Heard this morning on NPR. Said of a child who had not learned to regulate his own behavior. I suspect that his hair was discombed and he was disdressed as well.
February 29, 2008
skipvia commented on the word verbificent
Stuff and nonsense, reesetee. We eschew sesquipedalianism here. Lexiphanicism results only in obfuscation.
Oh...and, schadenfreude, whatever that means.
February 29, 2008
skipvia commented on the word has his head up his ass
There does seem to be a preponderance of "ass" metaphors. It also seems that I listed most of them. I wonder what that means?...
February 29, 2008
skipvia commented on the word doesn't know his ass from a hole in the ground
Already listed, gangerh...
February 29, 2008
skipvia commented on the list a-testicle-by-any-other-name
Creamballs? Creamballs?
February 29, 2008
skipvia commented on the list sweet-tooth-fairy
Reesetee, I'm shocked. Butting in on conversations is a cherished tradition here. The more you butt in, the better... :)
February 29, 2008
skipvia commented on the word fecal shield
You've got my vote, bilby. That's a scream...
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word how green were the nazis
Now you've got me singing "Springtime for Hitler..."
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word nattering nabobs of negativity
Oops. Should have looked that up, I guess.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word she's got him by the balls
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word have a heart
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word heart to heart talk
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word has his head up his ass
Clueless. See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word in the eye of the beholder
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word fingernails on my chalkboard
See Body Metaphors. See also Fingernails on My Chalkboard, one of my favorite lists.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word on the tip of the tongue
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word here's mud in your eye
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word by the sweat of his brow
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word a flick of the wrist
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word heart of stone
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word sticky fingers
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word semi-colon
Har!
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word won by a whisker
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word smooth as a baby's bottom
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the list public-list-body-metaphors
Well, I used dogleg, so go crazy...
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the list public-list-body-metaphors
Whew! That was fun. My car is ready. Gotta go...
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word butt out
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word face melter
Often said of a particularly powerful guitar solo. See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word vent your spleen
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word gut feeling
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word by the skin of your teeth
Ooh! Double!
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word doesn't know his ass from a hole in the ground
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word got your back
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word pain in the neck
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word ankle biter
Good one!
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word on his tail
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word put my finger on it
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word he has balls
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word foot the bill
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word shoulder to shoulder
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word hair of the dog
Typically, ingesting alcohol to cure a hangover. Strange. See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word won by a nose
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word doesn't know his ass from his elbow
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word face of the waters
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word making headway
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word out of my head
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the list public-list-body-metaphors
Thanks. I'm sitting in a customer lounge waiting to get my car repaired and they have a nice wireless connection, so I started brainstorming...
Hey--gotta add that one...
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word mind the store
This one is a bit of a stretch. See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word no stomach for it
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word toe the line
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word butt of the joke
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word fingernail moon
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word elbow room
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word cheeky behavior
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word stick your neck out
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word shoulder a burden
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word nose cone
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word face the music
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word ear of corn
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word wagon tongue
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word tailwind
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word knik arm
A lovely isthmus near Anchorage, Alaska. Also the site of one of the infamous "bridges to nowhere" proposed by Ted Stevens.
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word foothills
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word headwaters
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word finger lakes
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word dogleg hole
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word eye of the storm
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word foot of the bed
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word heart of the matter
One of my favorite phrases. See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word teeth of the storm
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word mouth of a river
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word bone of contention
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word neck of the woods
See Body Metaphors.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the list sweet-tooth-fairy
Sionnach, that conversation started with me but eventually involved chained_bear and reesetee, probably to no one's surprise.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the list sweet-tooth-fairy
Gangerh, I'll trade you stories. Here's mine. I grew up with the Taylors in Chapel Hill (where papa Ike was the dean of the med school) and played in bands with most of them. Livvy and I were in the same grade. A few of us were over at their house during Christmas holidays and decided to go Christmas caroling. Word was that James and his "girlfriend" were around somewhere and might join us. They did. It was a fun evening...
So...tell me about Brian Jones.
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word pointy-headed intellectuals
Not sure, but they made an appearance on my Politics as Usual list some time ago...
February 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the list sweet-tooth-fairy
Gangerh...THE Brian Jones? With the teardrop Vox? He was my ultimate hero back in the day.
I once went Christmas caroling with James Taylor and Joannie Mitchell, but I'd trade it for a day with Brian Jones. (Or would have, when he was alive...)
February 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the user thesuperiorbeing
Dang. I was going to go for gym teacher next...
February 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the user thesuperiorbeing
Custodian! No, principal!...Wait...
February 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the word cold bay
You may be interested to know that Cold Bay (pop. 87) is the third option for landing the space shuttle should FL or CA not work out due to weather. It has a huge lighted airstrip left over from a WWII air base. Occasionally, international flights that develop mechanical problems stop there.
February 26, 2008
skipvia commented on the word wocking awound the chwistmas twee
Wock on, gangewh...
February 26, 2008
skipvia commented on the list don-martin
I used to love Martin's cartoons in Mad. Is he still around? You might also enjoy this Bill Waterson list...
February 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word vewy fwustwating
See Kill the Wabbit.
February 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word two wongs don't make a wight
See Kill the Wabbit.
February 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word all wights wesewved
See Kill the Wabbit.
February 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word with my speaw and magic hewmet
See Kill the Wabbit.
February 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word you wascally wabbit
See Kill the Wabbit.
February 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word kill the wabbit
See Kill the Wabbit.
February 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word the woad
Hmmm. Sounds wike we need a new wist...
February 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word the woad
Or Elmer Fudd's autobiogwaphy...
February 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word romney lost 'cuz he's a mormon
Until I saw Palooka's comment, I read this as "moron" and not "Mormon." I was not at all predisposed to doubt its veracity, though...
February 23, 2008
skipvia commented on the word i'll dust my broom
Elmore James RULES!
Thanks, mollusque...
February 23, 2008
skipvia commented on the word super-superdelegate
From a description of Nancy Pelosi in the San Francisco Chronicle, 2/21/08.
Everyone is equal, but some are more equal than others...
February 22, 2008
skipvia commented on the word friend spam
C-B...maybe your friend could also print out the joke and bring you a copy as well. That way, you have all the senses covered. :-)
I sure missed you...
February 21, 2008
skipvia commented on the list vicious-sheep
Check in about 4 months from now and see what happens...
February 21, 2008
skipvia commented on the word friend spam
I know, c_b. After all, they're just trying to be nice. My cousin does it all the time, and I can't bring myself to ask her to stop.
February 21, 2008
skipvia commented on the word bovilexia
There is a word for that, mollusque, after a fashion. See aboiement.
Is there something you'd like to...ummm...tell us?
February 21, 2008
skipvia commented on the word brane
From Wikipedia:
In theoretical physics, a membrane, brane, or p-brane is a spatially extended, mathematical concept that appears in string theory and its relatives (M-theory and brane cosmology). The variable p refers to the spatial dimension of the brane. That is, a 0-brane is a zero-dimensional pointlike particle, a 1-brane is a string, a 2-brane is a "membrane", etc. Every p-brane sweeps out a (p+1)-dimensional world volume as it propagates through spacetime.
February 21, 2008
skipvia commented on the word friend spam
An increasing problem on social networking sites such as Facebook; unsolicited spam generated by applications that require you to invite friends to try the application before you can use it. I'd also apply the term to jokes that have been forwarded so many times that the message indents take up most of the page...
February 21, 2008
skipvia commented on the word superdelegate
I'm afraid it's more like business suits, cigars, and outstretched hands, Treeseed...
February 21, 2008
skipvia commented on the word superdelegate
The party knows what's best for you, dear...
February 21, 2008
skipvia commented on the list a-long-strange-trip
I've always loved stories about Avalon. Even the name is evocative...
February 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word lappet-faced
Further evidence that birds evolved from dinosaurs...
February 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word emo
Reesetee, have you ever heard emo music? The only fans are members of other emo bands, and maybe their parents...
February 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word emo
I love this definition from the Urban Dictionary:
Genre of softcore punk music that integrates unenthusiastic melodramatic 17 year olds who don't smile, high pitched overwrought lyrics and inaudible guitar rifts with tight wool sweaters, tighter jeans, itchy scarfs (even in the summer), ripped chucks with favorite bands signature, black square rimmed glasses, and ebony greasy unwashed hair that is required to cover at least 3/5 ths of the face at an angle.
Note: I do realize that the word "rifts" should be "riffs," but I think I might invent a new guitar method employing rifts--you know, respecting the silent spaces between sounds, or whatever...
February 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the list house-sweet-house
Oh, wait. I'm not wearing any...
February 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the list house-sweet-house
Very cool! I don't see haunted anywhere (although you do have "house of horror").
*runs off to change underwear before John gets personal*
February 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word jank-wad
A person displaying janky characteristics.
February 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word jank
A word my son uses to describe things that are worthless. From the Urban Dictionary: "broken; unnecessarily redundant, superfluous, or meaningless; stupid or ridiculously moronic; bootleg or of questionable quality."
Typical usage: "My teacher made us read the whole chapter. It was so jank."
February 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word jane and joan boyd
The original Doublemint Gum twins! (How far we have come...)
February 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word liz and dick
Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. Big for a while, anyway.
February 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word ukulele
If you never thought you'd see "ukulele" and "Smells Like Teen Spirit" in the same performance, check this out.
I wanna be their groupie...
February 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word nkia
An unfortunate acronym for "Neutral Killed in Action;" military speak for the loss of innocent bystanders during a combat action.
February 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the list oddball-opposites
I have to know, sionnach--are you quoting What's Up, Tiger Lily? or did you make that up yourself?
"Name three presidents..."
February 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word hydrox
I always thought this was a terrible brand name. It sounds like a toxic chemical.
February 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word cranberry sauce
Also the phrase that John Lennon uttered during the sound collage at the end of Strawberry Fields Forever which some interpreted as "I buried Paul."
February 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word wordiepiphany
I've been thinking about a comment mollusque made the other day on euryvocalic. He was able to remember an epiphanic moment at which words took on a new meaning for him. I think mine came from much more lowly circumstances. At about age 7 or 8 I read a little comic included in a Bazooka Bubblegum package that posed the question "What is the longest word in the world?" The answer, of course, is smiles, because there is a mile between the two s's. I remember thinking about that for days--it changed the way I thought about words and language in ways that are still with me today.
Do you recall your wordiepiphany?
February 17, 2008
skipvia commented on the word cheez whiz
See also velveeta.
February 17, 2008
skipvia commented on the word feta cheese
Boba Fett brought feta cheese to mind. See Free Association.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word boyce and hart
Tommy Boyce and bobby Hart were the songwriters responsible for much of the early Monkees' material, including their theme song. They also played the instruments on early Monkees' tracks before the Monkees were allowed to play them themselves. History may forgive them someday.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word buz and tod
Drove a Corvette along Route 66 for a few seasons.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word royce and jeannie kendall
Heaven's Just A Sin Away is the only country and western song I have on my iPod. Any song with a title like that has to be good. They also had an interesting tune about cheating on your spouse called "Pittsburgh Stealers."
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word beverly and jean-luc
It made a nice fantasy, didn't it...
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word beverly and jean-luc
OK, that might be a bit of a stretch. Except maybe for that episode where they were joined telepathically...ummm...see dork out.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word race radio
See race music.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word hoigle and moigle
Had to look that one up. I had a suspicion that you were venturing into madeupical land again...
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word race music
Deep, uselessness. We don't usually think of race and, say, hair color in the same way, but essentially having blonde hair is no different than being ethnically Chinese--they're both just results of genetic adaptations. We're still all the same species...
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word race music
It was used mostly derogatorily. My parents were livid when they found out I was listening to race radio. (They would have been more upset if they had ever found out I was in Durham watching James Brown and Percy Sledge...)
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word rufus and carla
Rufus and Carla Thomas, a father and daughter duo who recorded for Stax records. Best known for "The Night Time is the Right Time" and "Do The Funky Chicken." Each was a successful solo artist as well.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word peaches and herb
Shake Your Groove Thing...
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word jake and elmo
The Blues Brothers.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word inez and charlie foxx
Best known for the song "Mockingbird," which they wrote, and for their energetic live shows (to which I can personally attest).
Mock (yeah) ing (yeah) bird (yeah) Yeah (yeah)
Mockingbird...
Everybody, have you heard?
(Have you heard?)
He's gonna buy me a Mockingbird
Oh, if that Mockingbird don't sing
He's gonna buy me a diamond ring
And if that diamond ring don't shine
He's gonna surely, break this heart of mine
And that's why, I keep tellin' him that's exactly
Whoa, ho, ho, I, all I know is I, I, I, I know...
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word shirley and lee
Best known for "Let The Good times Roll." They put on an incredible live show.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word race music
The name used throughout the South to describe music (soul, beebop, jazz, gospel, rhythm and blues, etc.) produced by African-American musicians. When I was growing up, I used to listen to "race radio"--those stations that played race music from Stax, Motown, Chess, and others. There were also "race theaters"--small venues that booked African-American acts. (I was usually the only white face in those theaters, but I got to see some incredible performances.)
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the user skipvia
I caught that, Treeseed, and immediately deleted my entry. I was getting kind of carried away with musicians. Perhaps I had better stop...
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word santo and johnny
Canadian musicians (brothers) who gave us the immortal instrumental "Sleepwalk."
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word peter and gordon
Peter Asher went on to produce James Taylor, among others.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word mickey and sylvia
Not to be confused with Ian and Sylvia (or with Mitch and Mickey), Mickey and Sylvia had a hit with the wonderful song Love Is Strange. Loved the guitar riffs in that one...
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word bill medley and bobby hatfield
The Righteous Brothers, aptly named.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word les paul and mary ford
Established many recording studio techniques that are now standard, including multi-tracking of vocals and instruments. Several number one hits in the fifties.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word bob and earl
Only one hit, but it was a doozy--The Harlem Shuffle.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word paul and paula
See Paula.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word dick and deedee
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yea-hea, yea-hea, yea-hea yea-hea
The mountains high and the valleys so deep
Cant get across to the other si-hi-hi-hi-hi-hi-hi-hi-hide
Don't ya give up baby, don't you cry
Don't ya give up 'til I reach the other si-hi-hi-hi-hi-hi-hide
I was lonely baby, I couldn't sleep
The night they took you from my si-hi-hi-hi-hi-hide...
The Mountains High. Phenomenal song...
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word ian and sylvia
Canadian folk singers, provided the model for Mitch and Mickey in A Mighty Wind.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word flo and eddie
a.k.a. The Fluorescent Leech and Eddie when they were with The Mothers of Invention, and as Mark Volman and Howard Kaylan when they were with the Turtles. Talk about two extremes...
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word phil and don
The immortal Everly Brothers.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word barbie and ken
Blaine was a loser...
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word crick and watson
Then why didn't YOU list them, you slack bastard?
*hoping that pretending to yell at uselessness will bring him back to Wordie full-time*
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word lennon and mccartney
McCartney is listing the Beatles' songs that he wrote as "McCartney and Lennon," for which I'll probably never forgive him.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word punch and judy
These characters always scared me.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word mutt and jeff
If there were ever a Zen comic strip, this would be it.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word hannity and colmes
Great comedy team!
They are kidding, aren't they?
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word april stevens and nino tempo
When the deep purple falls over sleepy garden walls
And the stars begin to twinkle in the night
In the mist of a memory you wander on back to me
Breathing my name with a sigh
In the still of the night once again I hold you tight
Though you're gone, your love lives on when moonlight beams
And as long as my heart will beat, sweet lover we'll always meet
Here in my deep purple dreams
Here in my deep purple dreams
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word donnie and marie
I still have a few questions about these two...
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word nelson and winnie
The Mandelas.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word janet and brad
Hey Janet (Yes Brad?), I've got something to say.
I really loved the skillful way
You beat the other girls to the bride's bouquet!
The river was deep but I swam it, Janet
The future is ours so let's plan it, Janet
So please don't tell me to can it, Janet
I've one thing to say and that's
Dammit, Janet, I love you...
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word tarzan and jane
Johnny Weissmuller and Maureen O'Sullivan...incredible.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word crick and watson
Francis Crick and James Watson, discoverers of the structure of DNA.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word king kong and faye raye
Oops. Should be Fay Wray...
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word ace and gary
The Ambiguously Gay Duo...
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word george and lennie
Of Mice and Men.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word barbie and ken
Forever doomed by anatomy to a platonic relationship.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word george and gracie
George Burns and Gracie Allen, Comedy team.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word donald and daisy
The Ducks...
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word ward and june
Beaver Cleaver's folks...
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word fred and ginger
Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word lennon and mccartney
enough said...
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word zager and evans
Creators of one of the very worst songs ever, so vile that it will not be referenced here. My day has already been ruined with a severe case of earworm...
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word martin and lewis
Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis, a very successful comedy team before they each went solo.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word tom and dick
The Smothers Brothers.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word sam and dave
Sam Moore and Dave Prater, soul singers without equals. Think "Soul Man."
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word sol-fa
See also sacred harp.
February 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word jumble ice
I've done it on several occasions, but I don't have a dog yard. That's a life style unto itself...
February 15, 2008
skipvia commented on the user chained_bear
Plus, when she's done, you don't even need to read the book. :-)
February 15, 2008
skipvia commented on the word flatboat
See barge board.
February 15, 2008
skipvia commented on the word barge board
From the late 1700s to the late 1800s, flat barges (known as flatboats) were built in the north country to float crops and other goods down the Mississippi to New Orleans. Since they could not be floated back upriver, the barges were disassembled and recycled for use in constructing houses. An interesting example can be found here.
February 15, 2008
skipvia commented on the word dreadnought
Sorry, reesette. This senility thing is rough. Thanks for the information--it makes sense that there was a connection. Nice glossary, too.
February 15, 2008
skipvia commented on the word jumble ice
River ice that has fractured and refrozen, sometimes resulting in jagged piles 5 or 6 feet high. The bane of dog mushers everywhere.
February 15, 2008
skipvia commented on the word my big fat muriel's greek wedding
So, someone else has seen Muriel's Wedding? I loved that movie. (Didn't care much for the other element in this title, though...)
February 15, 2008
skipvia commented on the word dreadnought
I don't really know, c_b. I can't find any evidence one way or the other. The dreadnought shape was larger than the then-predominant parlor guitar shape and it was much louder and clearer than previous shapes, so perhaps there is a connection there.
February 14, 2008
skipvia commented on the word al
Dang. I was busy all day and I missed a great straight line. Now it's too late...
February 14, 2008
skipvia commented on the word features
I know, seanahan. It's really difficult keeping up with the comments. I wish there were some way to tame them, but I can't imagine what that would be.
February 14, 2008
skipvia commented on the word right on time
A "perfect" sweet tooth fairy, at least for a child of the sixties...
February 14, 2008
skipvia commented on the word dreadnought
This word has a very different connotation to a guitar player. It's the standard shape of most modern acoustic guitars, having been designed by the Martin company in 1931.
February 14, 2008
skipvia commented on the word features
John, this is a minor point, but it would be nice if there were a "past comments" link at the bottom of the Recent Comments and Citations section as well as the top so that you wouldn't have to scroll all the way back up to the top of the comments to get to the next section.
(Why do I always feel like Dorothy approaching the Wizard when I ask for things like this?...)
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word laura ingles wilder
Spelling aside, jenn, anything is legal on the Free Association list.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word s’mores
Gotta go with c_b on this one. Touching marshmallows is the equivalent of biting tin foil as far as I'm concerned.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word skiffle
Ska always makes me think of Skiffle, not because of the music but because of the association with the Beatles and beat music and because the names are somewhat similar. See Free Association.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word peanut butter cookies
I've never understood why someone would destroy culinary perfection by putting a *gulp* Hershey's Kiss in the middle of it.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word fifi did it
HAR! It took me a minute, sionnach, but this is a true sidesplitter. Thanks.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the user skipvia
Whatever you do, don't stop contributing. I am learning so much...
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word mirepoix
See aromatic vegetables and trinity.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word trinity
See also aromatic vegetables and mirepoix for a slight variation on this.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word aromatic vegetables
Also called mirepoix in classic French cooking, the aromatic vegetables are generally considered to be onions, celery, and carrots. In Cajun cooking, the trinity consists of onions, celery, and peppers.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word so not boring
From a comment on a YouTube classical music video. I love this construction.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the user skipvia
Well, I can't let that slack bastard get ahead of me.Thank you, reesetee. Only ten thousand more and I'll be in your ballpark, assuming you stop contributing immediately.February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word strawcolored nutsedge
Flowers are distinctly straw-colored. See Prairie Grasses.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word bull sedge
Common food for waterfowl. See Prairie Grasses.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word cattail sedge
Thick, cylindrical female heads resembling common cattails. Food for waterfowl. See Prairie Grasses.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word thin-fruited sedge
Swamps and wet woodlands; bluish to light green leaves; food for waterfowl. See Prairie Grasses.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word meadow sedge
Grows in wet meadows, prairies, and woodlands. See Prairie Grasses.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word fescue sedge
Oval flower clusters with short, triangular spikes. See Prairie Grasses.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word crested sedge
Grows around lakes and streams, food for waterfowl. See Prairie Grasses.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word broom sedge
Apparently completely unrelated to broom sedge grass. Grows around lakes and drainage ditches. See Prairie Grasses.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word lurid sedge
Long, thin male spikes and short, thick female spikes. Hence the name? See Prairie Grasses.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word longhair sedge
Grows in swamps and around lakes, providing food for waterfowl. See Prairie Grasses.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word fragrant flatsedge
Mildly aromatic, spiky flowers. See Prairie Grasses.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word taperleaf flatsedge
Flowers form compact spherical masses and are quite beautiful but very small. See Prairie Grasses.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word sawbeak sedge
Short, triangular flowers that resemble birds' beaks. See Prairie Grasses.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word crowfoot sedge
Grows in swamps and wet prairies; eaten by waterfowl. See Prairie Grasses.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word woodland sedge
Grows along streams and lakes; browsed by deer. See Prairie Grasses.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word bristlebract sedge
Flourishes in marshes, wet meadows, along streams; a common food for waterfowl. See Prairie Grasses.
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word punk
A truly great band. Jim Pons, bassist, went on to play with Frank Zappa (and the Turtles, for which I guess I'll forgive him...)
February 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word palm sedge
Native to wooded lowlands. Leaves resemble palm fronds. See Prairie Grasses.
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word ivory sedge
Forms short, dense clumps. A common potted ornamental. See Prairie Grasses.
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word tussock sedge
Grows in clumps in moist forests and marshes. See Prairie Grasses.
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word prairie sedge
Habitat is typically low-lying fens (a beautiful word in itself) with glacial runoff. See Prairie Grasses.
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word common fox sedge
Common name for the awl-fuited sedge. See Prairie Grasses.
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word awl-fruited sedge
Significant food source for a variety of songbirds. See Prairie Grasses.
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the list public-list-prairie-grasses
Treeseed--it was my original intention not to include sedges, but what the heck? It's a public list, so please feel free...
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word punk
The Leaves were a proto-punk garage band from Los Angeles, known mainly for their recording of "Hey Joe." See Free Association.
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the list public-list-prairie-grasses
John's new image search feature is particularly informative and entertaining for most of the words on this list. See rattlesnake grass, for instance. For an example of a WeirdNET-worthy non sequitur, though, see prairie satin.
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the list public-list-prairie-grasses
I have, Treeseed. It was a cathartic experience for me--one of those times that you look at something in a completely different and transforming way. It's not just grass...
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word prairie satin
See Prairie Grasses
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word beakgrain
See also beak grass.
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word beak grass
Also known as beakgrain grass. Commonly used as an ornamental grass. See Prairie Grasses
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word sand dropseed
Seeds are attractive to birds. See Prairie Grasses
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word reed manna
Prefers wet soils. See Prairie Grasses
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word sweet grass
Fat, oat-like flowers, excellent forage. See Prairie Grasses
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word switch grass
Used for erosion control because of its extensive root system. See Prairie Grasses
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word fowl manna
I suspect reesetee will like this one. See Prairie Grasses
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word wild rye
There are several varieties of wild rye grasses including Virginia, Canada, and Riverbank. See Prairie Grasses
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word rattlesnake grass
Distinctive fat green flower clusters on slender branches. See Prairie Grasses
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word prairie june grass
Thrives in sand hills and open woods. See Prairie Grasses
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word prairie brome
Distinctive drooping seedheads. See Prairie Grasses
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word buffalo grass
See Prairie Grasses
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word bottlebrush
Seedhead resembles a bottle brush. See Prairie Grasses
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word blue joint
See Prairie Grasses
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word needle grass
See Prairie Grasses
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word sideoats grama
Very high quality forage and attractive to birds. See Prairie Grasses
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word porcupine grass
Seed heads have a sharp awn which can injure livestock. See Prairie Grasses
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word prairie dropseed
Seeds attract birds and butterflies. See Prairie Grasses
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word little bluestem
Shoots are blue when they first emerge from the ground in spring. See Prairie Grasses
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word rip gut
Known for its very tough stems and serrated edges. Also called cord grass. See Prairie Grasses
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word cord grass
Also known as rip gut. See Prairie Grasses
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word indian grass
Commonly used as hay and forage. See Prairie Grasses
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word turkey foot grass
See big bluestem.
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word big bluestem
Also known as turkey foot grass because of the distinctive branching pattern of the seeds. See Prairie Grasses
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word grass
Can't think about a prairie without thinking about the native grasses that grow (or should be growing) there. I think I'll go start a list...
See Free Association.
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word ungulate
He was eating the scrub willow down by the road. On the drive home from Anchorage last night, we had to stop for a herd of caribou crossing the road.
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word little golden book
My favorite was about a prince looking for the best thing in life and finding it in a loaf of brown bread hidden inside a tree. I'd love to find that one again...
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word ungulate
Seeing undulant immediately reminded me of this word, possibly because I was watching a moose cross my driveway just a few minutes ago... See Free Association.
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word knuckle up
To prepare for a fight. See Knuckle Up.
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word brass knuckles
A set of rings attached to a bar, worn over the fingers to increase the force of a blow. See Knuckle Up.
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word knuckle duster
Another term for brass knuckles. See Knuckle Up.
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word knucklehead
A person of low intelligence. See Knuckle Up.
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word knuckleball
See also knuckle ball.
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word knuckle ball
Also knuckleball. A randomly fluttering pitch thrown by gripping the ball with the tips or nails of two or three fingers. See Knuckle Up.
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word white knuckle
Characterized by nervousness or apprehension. See Knuckle Up.
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word knuckle under
To give up under pressure. See Knuckle Up.
February 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word knuckle dragger
A slow or dimwitted person. See Knuckle Up.
February 11, 2008
skipvia commented on the word 32-pounder
Wow! Firepower equivalent to 128 Big Macs.
February 11, 2008
skipvia commented on the word californicate
Living in Seattle in the mid/late seventies, we were just beginning to see bumper stickers saying "Don't Californicate Washington." Sadly, no one paid attention...
February 11, 2008
skipvia commented on the word velveeta
John--tell me you can look at this picture and ever eat Velveeta again. See puke bowl if you need additional evidence...
February 11, 2008
skipvia commented on the word sotto voce
I was surprised to find Teach Me Tiger the other day on iTunes. I bought it for old times' sake.
February 11, 2008
skipvia commented on the word sotto voce
April Stevens' use of sotto voce on Teach Me Tiger got her banned from many radio stations because her whispered moans were considered too "suggestive."
An amusing song that should have been banned simply because it was so bad.
February 11, 2008
skipvia commented on the word sausage fest
Dang. I was just thinking that the Irish were my kind of people...
February 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word lincoln
See rod and chained_bear's Songboys list.
February 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word rod
Hot Rod Lincoln by Commander Cody and the Lost Planet Airmen. I guess you could also count lincoln even though neither actually refers to a boy's name...
February 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word cathy
I love that song, c_b, as well as just about every other song they ever recorded. Listening to the Everly Brothers was like the proverbial light bulb for me in terms of understanding what vocal harmony is.
February 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word tribute band
A cover band that plays songs and usually affects the appearance of a specific band. My favorite tribute band name is "Hell's Belles," an all-female AC/DC cover band.
February 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word cover band
Essentially a living jukebox, cover bands play music made popular by other bands, thereby assuring the audience that there is no chance that they will hear anything original.
Also see tribute band.
February 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word teddy
Teddy Boy by Paul McCartney. Not proud to admit that I remember this.
February 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word ziggy
For a time there was also a huge assumption about Bowie's gender.
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word louie
Louie Louie by the Kingsmen
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word boris
Boris the Spider by the Who
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the list •open-list-songboys
These are much tougher to come up with than their female counterparts...
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word jude
Hey Jude by the Beatles. Their largest selling single ever, for some reason...
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word julio
Me and Julio Down By the Schoolyard by Paul Simon
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word al
You Can Call Me Al by Paul Simon
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word vincent
Vincent by Don McLean
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word edmund
The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald by Gordon Lightfoot
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word rocky
Rocky Raccoon by the Beatles
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word maxwell
Maxwell's Silver Hammer by the Beatles
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word nick
Little Saint Nick by the Beach Boys
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word tom
Just Like Tom Thumb Blues by Bob Dylan
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word romeo
Just Like Romeo and Juliet by the Reflections
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word joe
Hey Joe by the Leaves, Love, Jimi Hendrix, and just about everyone else.
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word earl
Duke of Earl by Gene Chandler. Moment of silence...
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word charlie
Charlie Brown by the Coasters
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word bennie
Bennie and the Jets by Elton John. Hate that song, too...
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word leroy
Bad Bad Leroy Brown by Jim Croce. Hate that song...
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word simon
Simon Smith and His Amazing Dancing Bear by Alan Price (composed by Randy Newman, I believe...). Alan Price was the former organist for the Animals.
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word jack
Don't forget Hit The Road, Jack, by Ray Charles...
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word mac
Mac the Knife, popularized by Bobby Darin.
"When the shark bites, with his teeth dear..."
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word jimmy
Jimmy Mack by Martha and the Vandellas
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word johnny
Also Johnny B. Goode by Chuck Berry
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word bo
Bo Diddley by, ummm, Bo Diddley
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word sue
If we include Lola, we must include Sue...
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word norman
Norman by Sue Thompson
"Norman, ooo ooo ooo ooo ooo ooo ooo ooo, Norman..."
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word freddie
Do the Freddie by Freddie and the Creamers
Edit: DREAMERS! I meant Dreamers! No Freudian slip on my part, no siree...
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word lola
Appearance on this list is technically correct, anyway...
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word enlightenment
It can work both ways, reesetee. When the vendor didn't give the patron his change back, the patron complained about it. The vendor replied "Change comes from within."
*rim shot*
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word unfossiliferous
That sounds madeupical.
February 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word julia
True, gangerh. A beautiful and mysterious song.
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word features
You know, you just have to love a site on which hemorrhoid cream puffs, euryvocalic, sheila, and foretopgallantmast appear on the same page. Thanks, John.
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the list songbirds
Gangerh, you've created the worst case of earworm that I have ever experienced.
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word minnie
Mini Skirt Minnie by Wilson Pickett
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word cathy
Cathy's Clown by the Everly Brothers. The first 45 I ever bought.
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word rhonda
Help Me Rhonda by the Beach Boys.
Help me Rhonda, help help me Rhonda...
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word izabella
Izabella by Jimi Hendrix
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word bernadette
Bernadette by the Four Tops.
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word sheila
Sheila by Tommy Roe
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word georgia
Georgia On My Mind. Ray Charles is responsible for the definitive version.
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word roxanne
Roxanne by the Police. I like the band, but I truly hate this song.
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word ophelia
Ophelia by the Band
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word jeannie
Jeannie Jeannie Jeannie by Eddie Cochran
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word sussudio
Sussudio by Phil Collins
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word enlightenment
You never know how close you may be to true enlightenment. The other day, I saw a guy walk up to a hot dog vendor and say "Make me one with everything."
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word bessie
Bessie Smith by Bob Dylan
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word julia
Julia by the Beatles
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word denise
Denise by Randy and the Rainbows
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word gloria
Gloria, originally by Them (Van Morrison) but covered by just about everyone. Also a completely different doo wop tune done by the Cadillacs.
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word foretopgallantmast
Wow. That word could do with a few well-placed apostrophes, as in fo'c's'le. Of course, that would destroy the compoundiness, replacing it with apostrophism.
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word apostrophism
A possible cure for compoundiness. See foretopgallantmast.
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word suzy creamcheese
Palooka, how could you not listen to a band with songs like "Boobs a Lot" and "I Feel Like Homemade Shit?"
Loved those guys...
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word maggie
Maggie's Farm by Bob Dylan
Maggie May by Rod Stewart
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word suzy creamcheese
Too cool! I was not aware that Zappa took the lyric from an earlier song. Freak Out probably influenced me more than any other album. Should I admit that?
I'm now off on a quest to locate Teddy and His Patches.
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the list songbirds
Some serious free associating is happening over at my house...
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word sherry
Sherry Baby by the Four Seasons
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word ruby
Ruby Baby by Dion and the Belmonts
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word sue
Runaround Sue by Dion and the Belmonts
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word paula
Hey Paula by Paul and Paula. Appalling, and somewhat paltry.
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word nadine
Nadine by Chuck Berry
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word martha
Martha My Dear by the Beatles
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word lucille
Lucille by Little Richard
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word wendy
Wendy by the Beach Boys
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word clawdy
Lawdy Miss Clawdy by Lloyd Price
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word cecilia
"You're breaking my heart..."
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word lily
Also Pictures of Lily by the Who. Great tune...
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word lizzy
Dizzy Miss Lizzy by Larry Williams
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word layla
Layla by Derrick and the Dominoes
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the list songbirds--1
Gotta stop...
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word josephine
My Girl Josephine by Fats Domino
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word jane
Lady Jane by the Rolling Stones
Queen Jane Approximately by Bob Dylan
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word mary
Hello Mary Lou by Ricky Nelson
Proud Mary by Creedence Clearwater Revival
Mary Mary by Jimmie Reed
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word corinna
Corinna Corinna by Joe Turner
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word carol
Carol by Chuck Berry
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word barbara ann
Barbara Ann by the Beach Boys
Ba ba ba, ba baba 'ran...
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word annie
Poke Salad Annie by Tony Joe White
Work With Me Annie by the Midnighters
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word angie
Angie by the Rolling Stones
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word lucy
Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds by the Beatles
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word anna
Anna by Arthur Alexander
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word maybelline
Maybelline by Chuck Berry
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word sally
Long Tall Sally by Little Richard
Mustang Sally by Wilson Pickett
Sally Go 'Round the Roses by the Jaynetts
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word suzie q
Suzie Q by Dale Hawkins
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word donna
Oh Donna by Richie Valens
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word michelle
Michelle by the Beatles
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word mony
Mony Mony by Tommy James and the Shondells. The name Mony was taken from a Mutual of New York billboard.
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word lola
Lola by the Kinks.
Lo lo lo lo LOOOOLLLLAAAAA!!!!....
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word miss molly
Good Golly Miss Molly by Little Richard
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word boni maroni
Boni Maroni by Richie Valens; also Bony Moroni by Larry Williams (the original version). Not to be confused with the angel...
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word wavelength
If there is chemistry between two people, they may be said to be on the same wavelength. See Free Association.
February 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word shipwreck
One of my most enduring memories is of exploring the dunes along North Carolina's Outer Banks and finding partially buried wooden shipwrecks, which we were certain were pirate ships. See Free Association.
February 7, 2008
skipvia commented on the word erector set
I thought you might be interested in this article from Mental Floss on the backstories of many classic toys, including the The Mysto Erector Structural Steel Builder, now known as the Erector Set. The article also includes the lowdown on Mr. Potato Head, the Slinky, and Lincoln Logs, which, it seems, were not named after Abe.
February 7, 2008
skipvia commented on the word gotham
Gotham is the archetypal Art Deco font, very reminiscent of the 1920s' fascination with modernism, cities and progress.
February 7, 2008
skipvia commented on the word jumpin' jehosephat
I'm not able to locate a decent etymology for this phrase. See Delightful Ejaculations.
February 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word lucifer's hamper
Treeseed, I'll read anything Larry Niven writes--although I'll have to admit that the Ringworld series got a bit bogged down in details toward the end. If it has, in fact, ended.
Great book, though, isn't it?
February 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word oriflamme
Seanahan: endures orc. See anagram.
February 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word brave new word
I'm looking on eBay next time I want a nifty new word to add to Wordie!
February 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word katie bar the door
Interesting etymology may be found here.
February 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word jeezo peezo
See jeez.
February 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word geuzennaam
Fascinating. Didn't know there was a word for this phenomenon. (Phenomenon is a difficult word to type...)
February 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word palestine
Rose of Sharon, the plains of Palestine. See Free Association.
February 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word wrath
Dust bowl immediately conjured up Grapes of Wrath. See Free Association.
February 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word the incredible lightness of boing!
HAR! You may have topped yourself, sionnach.
February 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the user sarahatlee
Hi Sarah;
You might not be aware that Delightful Ejaculations is a public list. You can enter your own words there. I hope you claim Mama Pajama! I love that one--the only place I have ever heard it used is the film Mystery Men, which I adore. (And Paul Simon's Me and Julio Down By the School Yard.)
February 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word parchman farm
"It has been covered by Blues Project, Cactus, Michael Chapman, Blue Cheer, Ray Condo, Rick Derringer, Georgie Fame, The Kingston Trio, John Mayall, Johnny Winter and others."
I wouldn't generally expect to see Johnny Winter and the Kingston Trio in the same list.
Fantastic song, though.
February 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word delta
"Blues" makes me think of the Mississippi delta. See Free Association.
February 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word shipyard
Solidarnosc was established by Lech Walesa and others in a Polish shipyard. See Free Association.
February 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word lech walesa
Heady days, those. I was ready to smash the establishment.
Come to think of it...
February 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word solidarnosc
I had to look up oriflamme, but the association with solidarnosc would be obvious to many of us. See Free Association.
February 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word mother dog
An expression of awe or amazement. See Delightful Ejaculations.
February 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word good gosh miss agnes
See chained_bear's Delightful Ejaculations.
February 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word great day in the morning
I haven't heard this one in years. My father used to use it all the time, along with good gosh miss agnes.
February 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word water closet
I wasn't able to leave the salle de bain either, Treeseed. See Free Association.
February 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the list public-list-free-association
I'll have to admit that vortex was not the very first word that popped into my head...
February 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word inferno
Dante's vision of Hell and environs qualifies as the devil's playground. See Free Association.
February 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the word sweet mother of pearl
Works better with an exclamation point after it. Maybe several!!!! (I've always felt that adding lots of those just screams "class.")
See Delightful Ejaculations.
February 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the word amish
I always associate shoofly pie with the Amish folks, but I remember having it in the South as well. See Free Association.
February 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the list sweet-tooth-fairy
Either way, sionnach, that's wonderful...
February 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the list public-list-free-association
You can do anything you want to my lists, c_b!
February 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the word vortex
Vortexes suck. See Free Associations.
Edit: That should be "vortices." Thanks, mollusque...
February 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the word lactation consultant
Right up there with life coach...
February 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the word croque madame
An...ummm...unfertilized egg. :-)
February 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the word croque madame
A croque monsieur served with a fried egg on top.
February 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the word croque monsieur
A popular grilled French sandwich, prepared with additional cheese on top. See also croque madame.
February 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the word fire whirl
Cool! I've often wondered if that phenomenon had a name.
February 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the list poetic-butterfly-names
Wonderful list! Could a whirlabout, fritillary, or skipperling be anything but a butterfly?
February 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the word model
In my college life drawing classes, our instructor always asked the models to derobe. I suspect he meant disrobe. See Free Association.
February 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word reaming lolita in tehran
That's just sick, sionnach. I love it!
February 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the list public-list-a-horse-is-a-horse
Dang. Blew my cover again, sionnach.
*hoping no one discovers his true alter ego*
February 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word excoriate
Partial rhyme with decorate. Other than that, I don't know why it popped into my head. See Free Association.
February 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the list public-list-a-horse-is-a-horse
I just claimed to be chained_bear to throw you off. I'm actually the side of sionnach that likes to tell fart jokes...
February 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word bear
In second grade, my son's teacher had a stuffed bear named Shortstop in her classroom that the students were allowed to take home periodically. See Free Association.
February 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word baseball cards
My first baseball cards came with a small stick of very stiff, virtually inedible bubblegum--which didn't stop us from trying. See Free Associations.
February 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word absalom! schmabsalom!
William Faulkner decides to pen a sweeping saga of three families in the American South during the Civil War, but gives up after the plot becomes too convoluted.
Hey, if sionnach can get by with cold cereal killer I should be able to get by with this...
February 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the user skipvia
Thanks, treeseed. You were the inspiration for the list. I enjoy following the internal logic of your posts.
February 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word guitar
My first guitar was Harmony. See Free Association.
February 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word war
Can't see the word trench without thinking of World War I. See Free Association.
February 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the list public-list-free-association
This is a shameless attempt to call your attention to a potentially interesting list I just started...
February 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word porch
See also screened porch.
February 3, 2008
skipvia commented on the word screened porch
An essential part of any Southern house. Usually referred to as "screen porch." See ice tea.
February 3, 2008
skipvia commented on the word yodeling
WeirdNet got this one right...
February 3, 2008
skipvia commented on the word melisma
Changing the pitch of a single syllable of a lyric as the song is being sung. Think of the syllable "o" in the word "gloria" in Angels We Have Heard On High.
February 3, 2008
skipvia commented on the word passaggio
The transition between the deeper, more powerful notes of the "chest voice" (a.k.a. chest register) and the higher, more breathy "head voice" (head register). Some singing styles--e.g., bel canto, focus on smoothing out this transition. Others--e.g., yodeling-- emphasize it.
February 3, 2008
skipvia commented on the word bel canto
From Wikipedia: Bel canto singing characteristically focuses on perfect evenness throughout the voice, skillful legato, a light upper register, tremendous agility and flexibility, and a certain lyric, "sweet" timbre. Operas of the style feature extensive and florid ornamentation, requiring much in the way of fast scales and cadenzas. Bel canto emphasizes technique rather than volume: an exercise said to demonstrate its epitome involves a singer holding a lit candle to her mouth and singing without causing the flame to flicker.
February 3, 2008
skipvia commented on the word ululation
High-pitched vibrating tone created by moving the tongue rapidly back and forth while holding a note.
February 2, 2008
skipvia commented on the word harmonic singing
A vocal style of overtone singing in which the singer manipulates pitch harmonics to produce several tones at once. Accomplished singers can sing two or three completely different vocal lines, in essence harmonizing with themselves.
An intriguing modern example is here. Authentic Tuvan examples may be found here. That's just one guy singing...
February 2, 2008
skipvia commented on the word death growl
A type of overtone singing common in death metal and related musical genres, produced by forcing air across the vocal cords while tightening the throat resulting in a low, guttural growl.
February 2, 2008
skipvia commented on the word word shaping
Vocal technique in which the singer distorts, emphasizes, or changes the pronunciation of a word to make it more musical. (Needles and pinz-za...)
February 2, 2008
skipvia commented on the word tessitura
The range of notes that compromises most of the vocal part of a song.
February 2, 2008
skipvia commented on the word backphrasing
Singing words or phrases of a song slightly behind the beat to add emotion or drama to the song. Common in jazz singing. (Think Tony Bennett...)
February 2, 2008
skipvia commented on the list public-list-a-horse-is-a-horse
Hmmm...we've already established that yarb and arby are the same person (see yeppers and gemsbok). And now, reesetee and treeseed...and you never really see john and uselessness together...
Would it help if I confessed that I am chained_bear?
February 2, 2008
skipvia commented on the list public-list-a-horse-is-a-horse
Well, it's just not as much fun without you.
February 2, 2008
skipvia commented on the list public-list-a-horse-is-a-horse
My apologies, reesetee. Haven't seen much of you lately. Did I finally scare you away?
February 2, 2008
skipvia commented on the word blueboy
That's somewhat disturbing.
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the list public-list-a-horse-is-a-horse
I'm afraid they existed only on TV, treeseed...
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the list public-list-a-horse-is-a-horse
I wouldn't want to be the cowboy riding Bucephalus...
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word job in the morning
I didn't realize there was a Wodehouse book of the same name. It has been so long since I've read one, they kind of all blend together to me. Kind of like the Boxcar Children, for a real blast from the past...
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word job in the morning
Ah. Not surprised that you haven't heard of it. Not a very good book (Betty Smith, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn), made into a sappy movie in the early seventies. My family knew the author as I was growing up.
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the list public-list-a-horse-is-a-horse
More like an underkick list. :-)
Jimmy Mayo, Peter Scheffler, Chris Cramer and I used to meet up every day after school and decide who was going to ride which horse home that day. Then we'd gallop along home, leaping creeks and...
That is normal, isn't it?...
*thinks about not posting this comment*
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word topper
Hopalong Cassidy. See A Horse is a Horse
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word target
Annie Oakley. See A Horse is a Horse
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word ringo
Josh Randal (Wanted Dead or Alive). See A Horse is a Horse
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word rex
Sargent Preston. See A Horse is a Horse
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word razor
Lucas McCain (The Rifleman). See A Horse is a Horse
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word midnight
Rowdy Yates. See A Horse is a Horse
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word sport
Adam Cartwright. Had to look that one up. See A Horse is a Horse
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word cochise
Little Joe Cartwright. See A Horse is a Horse
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word chub
Hoss Cartwright. See A Horse is a Horse
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word buck
Matt Dillon and Ben Cartwright. See A Horse is a Horse
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word joker
Andy Devine. See A Horse is a Horse
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word buckshot
Wild Bill Hickock. See A Horse is a Horse
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word fury
Joey Newton. See A Horse is a Horse
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word loco
Pancho. See diablo and A Horse is a Horse
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word diablo
Cisco Kid. See A Horse is a Horse
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word scout
Tonto. See A Horse is a Horse
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word silver
Lone Ranger. See A Horse is a Horse
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word horse
Dudley Do-Right. See A Horse is a Horse
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word mr. ed
Wilbur. See A Horse is a Horse
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word rafter
Palladin. See A Horse is a Horse
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word phantom
Zorro. See A Horse is a Horse
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word tornado
Zorro. See A Horse is a Horse
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word buttermilk
Dale Evans. See A Horse is a Horse
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word trigger
Roy Rogers. See A Horse is a Horse
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word bender is the night
Hee hee!
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word and
Leaving the commas out of that sentence would present an interesting challenge...
February 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word job in the morning
Well, seanahan, they move to the suburbs and...ummm...get jobs for which they have to get up every...ummm....morning. You see, it's a play on Joy in the Morning, which...
Would it help if you knew which list this was part of?
January 31, 2008
skipvia commented on the word nickel and mimed
A young street performer travels the country trying to make a living channeling Marcel Marceau but finds his earnings limited to a few coins here and there.
January 31, 2008
skipvia commented on the word fast wood nation
Har!
January 31, 2008
skipvia commented on the word blows goats
See also blows dead rats...
January 31, 2008
skipvia commented on the word once flew over the cuckoo's nest
A California family, concerned about their son's mental stability, make a site visit to an asylum in Pendleton, Orgeon to decide on the possibility of his placement there. On meeting Nurse Ratched and Randle, however, they decide against committing their son and return home.
January 30, 2008
skipvia commented on the word god, guns and gays
Reminds me of this bumper sticker seen on a local pickup truck lately.
What about pounds and feet? None of this metric crap for me!
January 30, 2008
skipvia commented on the word crave new world
Geez, that's...not...funny...
*curls up with the Kinks on his iPod*
January 30, 2008
skipvia commented on the word the colon purple
HAHAHAHA!!!
January 30, 2008
skipvia commented on the word naive son
Bigger Thomas, a poor African American living on Chicago's south side, accidentally kills a white woman but he has unflappable faith in the ability of the American justice system to understand his case and exonerate him.
January 30, 2008
skipvia commented on the word joke
This is a joke, right?...
January 30, 2008
skipvia commented on the word brideshed revisited
Sebastian has been boasting about his family's palatial home. Charles convinces Sebastian to visit but he soon discovers it's merely a ramshackle hovel.
January 30, 2008
skipvia commented on the word the wreath of grapes
The Joads discover that they can eke out a living fashioning Christmas decorations from vineyard prunings.
*hoping that changing the order of the words in the title won't matter too much...*
January 30, 2008
skipvia commented on the word the red barge of courage
Dang. I had one all ready for the Red Badger of Courage, but yours is better.
January 30, 2008
skipvia commented on the list change-one-letter
What pomegranate said! I'm really enjoying this.
January 30, 2008
skipvia commented on the word coral castle
For trivia buffs, the Coral Castle was the location for two of the very worst movies I have ever seen: The Wild Women of Wongo and the truly indescribable Nude on the Moon. I'm a Z-movie fanatic but even I have trouble watching these.
January 30, 2008
skipvia commented on the word coral castle
Also the host of NPR's Wait, Wait, Don't Tell Me.
January 30, 2008
skipvia commented on the word the farthest whore
A strange, inexplicable malaise is spreading throughout Earthsea. The cause appears to be a prostitute living along a remote edge of the archipelago.
January 30, 2008
skipvia commented on the word job in the morning
Carl and Annie fall deeply in love, get married despite everyones' objections, move to the suburbs and find clerical employment in a furniture supplier's warehouse.
January 30, 2008
skipvia commented on the word a tale of two cuties
Charlie was like "It was the best of times" and Syd was like "It was the worst of times" and they were both like "That is so totally cool that you would say that" but when they both got the hots for the same guy Charlie was like "Whoa, that came out of nowhere" and Syd was all "As if" and pretty soon they were both like "What-EVER."
January 29, 2008
skipvia commented on the word the andromeda stain
In a poorly-received sequel to his more famous novel, Crichton documents the problems encountered in the cleanup of hundreds of dead bodies littering the streets of Piedmont, Arizona.
January 29, 2008
skipvia commented on the word rabbi, run
Harry "Slowhand" Feldman, aspiring mohel from Kenosha, WI, finds no solace in the complete lack of a Jewish community and takes off in the hope of finding himself.
January 29, 2008
skipvia commented on the word requiem for a noun
A group of Wordies gathers to discuss how verbing weirds language.
January 29, 2008
skipvia commented on the word valley of the dalls
Tales of debauchery and and drug use around the campfire during an Alaska sheep hunt.
January 29, 2008
skipvia commented on the word rogue state
States ruled by authoritarian regimes that severely restrict human rights, sponsor terrorism, and seek to proliferate weapons of mass destruction. They are generally considered a threat to world stability.
January 29, 2008
skipvia commented on the word rogue nation
"After the cold war, we labeled our potential adversaries "rogue nations"--violent, lawless, willing to trample the weak and ignore international law and morality to enforce their will. Now, in the vote at the UN, in the headlines of papers across Europe, in the planning of countries large and small, there is a growing consensus that the world's most destructive rogue nation is the most powerful country of them all"
thenation.com, 2001
January 29, 2008
skipvia commented on the word rogue trader
Jerome Kerviel, SocGen Bank, France. Created an international securities crisis in January 2008 by hiding billions of dollars of bad financial transactions.
January 29, 2008
skipvia commented on the word rogue wave
A wave that poses significant danger to ships at sea. Defined as a wave whose height is more than twice the significant wave height (SWH), which is defined as the mean of the largest third of waves in a wave record; a.k.a a really big wave.
January 29, 2008
skipvia commented on the word yo yo mama
This is my favorite STF yet.
January 29, 2008
skipvia commented on the word shorty zucchini
A (now deceased) local character in Ester, Alaska. No relation to Fred Asparagus.
January 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the list peoples-is-peoples
There is also a list of unusual real names on this list of mine.
January 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word teen angel
Don't get me started on teenage death songs, treeseed...
"We were out on a date in my daddy's car.
We hadn't driven very far.
There in the road straight up ahead
A car was stalled, the engine was dead
I couldn't stop so I swerved to the right.
I'll never forget the sound that night.
The screaming tires the busting glass,
The painful scream that I heard last..."
January 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word slaughterhouse jive
It's a zany laugh riot when Billy Pilgrim meets the Wayan brothers in Dresden during World War II.
January 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word the least of the mohicans
Chingachgook's cousin, Chaching, leaves the tribe to set up a casino on tribal lands.
January 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word lucifer's hamper
A scientist survives Earth's collision with a comet by hiding out in the laundry room.
January 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word little woman
Meg leaves her sisters, gets married to a marketing executive, and settles down to a nondescript life as a housewife.
January 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word can't on a hot tin roof
A searing play about the difficulties of stolen love in the ramshackle shanties of the Deep South.
January 28, 2008
skipvia commented on the word notaulix
So that's where they keep those...
January 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the word artificial intelligence test
See the sweet tooth fairy list.
January 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the word blue moon
*earworm alert*
Ba ba bomp ba ba bomp ba dangy dang dang ba dingy dong ding Blue Moooooon....
January 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the word comptometer
Fascinating page, reesetee. Seriously ugly, but fascinating.
January 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the word mr. potato head
I only got to play with Mr. Potato Head when we were having potatoes for dinner. When I was done, mom fixed them for dinner.
January 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the word question
What is a question, anyway? Oh...wait. WeirdNet has taken care of that for us.
January 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the word mr. potato head
Me too, Treeseed. We actually used real potatoes, though. I don't recall having a plastic potato. Maybe I lost it...
January 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the word zulfiqar
Sword of Ali, Islamic hero and the first person said to have professed Islam.
January 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the list public-list-calculating-devices
Oh, what the hell. Let's make this a public list.
January 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the list public-list-calculating-devices
Thanks guys. Duly added.
January 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the word slide rule
A calculating device with sliding scales that can perform a range of mathematical and scientific calculations, including logarithms, roots, powers, exponentials. The modern form appeared in 1859 as an artillery calculator. Slide rules were in common use until electronic calculators appeared in the 1960s. See Calculating Devices.
January 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the word arithmometer
1820, France. It sounds like a device from a Philip Pullman novel, but it was the first commercially successful mechanical calculator. Thomas de Colmar used the Leibniz Wheel to produce a machine that could add, subtract, multiply and divide. It was in popular use for one hundred years. See Calculating Devices.
January 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the word jacquard loom
1801, France. Not really a calculating machine, but this device used a punchcard mechanism to automate the weaving of cloth. Different punchcards produced different patterns. When the device was introduced, French weavers took to the streets to protest the threat to their livelihood--beginning a French tradition that continues to this day... See Calculating Devices.
January 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the word leibniz wheel
See stepped reckoner.
January 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the word stepped reckoner
1674, Germany. Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz invented a device that used a special type of gear called the Stepped Drum or Leibniz wheel, a cylinder with nine bar-shaped teeth along its length. He named his machine the Staffelwalze or the Stepped Reckoner. The machine could add, subtract, multiply, divide, and even evaluate square roots by a series of additions. See Calculating Devices.
January 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the word arithmetique
See pascaline.
January 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the word pascaline
1645, France. Blaise Pascal invented a mechanical calculator (also called the Arithmetique) that could add and subtract. Because the machine was so complex and was prone to jamming (running, as it did, an early version of Windows), Pascal was able to sell only a dozen machines. See Calculating Devices.
January 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the word calculating clock
1623, Germany. Wilhelm Schickard invented a device called the Speeding Clock or the Calculating Clock. The device could add and subtract six-digit numbers and was used by Johannes Kepler to calculate astronomical tables. For this, Wilhelm Schickard was considered by some to be the "Father of Computer Age." (But see antikythera mechanism for an much earlier mechanical calculator.) See Calculating Devices.
January 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the word napier's bones
1614, Scotland. John Napier created a device, called Napier's bones that performed multiplications by doing a series of additions (which was a lot easier to do) and divisions as a series of subtraction as well as square and cube roots. See Calculating Devices.
January 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the word antikythera mechanism
Approx. 100 BC, found on a shipwreck near Crete. The earliest example of an analog computer. More than 30 gears and writings that are believed to have been used to calculate the motion of the sun and the moon against a background of fixed stars. No one knows who made the object or why the technology was lost for over 1000 years. See Calculating Devices.
January 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the word abacus
Generally associated with the Orient but used in Babylon as early as 2400 BC. Also found in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. See Calculating Devices.
January 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the word ishango bone
From the Belgian Congo. The 20,000-year-old bone revealed that early civilization had mastered arithmetic series and even the concept of prime numbers. See Calculating Devices.
January 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the word lebombo bone
From Swaziland, approximately 350,000 years old. The bone has a series of 29 notches that were deliberately cut to help ancient bushmen calculate numbers and perhaps also measure the passage of time. It is considered the oldest known mathematical artifact. See Calculating Devices.
January 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the word difference engine
Charles Babbage, 1882. Composed of 25,000 parts, weighed 15 tons (13,600 kg) and stood 8 feet (2.4 m) high. It was never completed, and Babbage left to pursue another idea, a more complex Analytical Engine, which could be programmed using punch cards. See Calculating Devices.
January 27, 2008
skipvia commented on the list house-officer-argot
What John said. This is a wonderful list.
January 26, 2008
skipvia commented on the word joob
I became curious about the word in high school because a friend of mine thought Lennon was singing "Go cook a Jew." I actually wrote to Apple Corps to get the real lyrics so I could convince him otherwise. Ironically, he was Jewish...
January 26, 2008
skipvia commented on the list fauxlyrical
I am really enjoying this list! Maybe I'll start a Doo Wop phrases list...
January 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word ochrasy
Wonderful! There needs to be a word for that. I experienced it many times, back in the day...
January 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word phosphenes
Wait. People intentionally squeeze their eyeballs? I can't even stand the thought of touching them. I don't wear contacts because I'm afraid that they'll migrate around to the back, sever my optic nerves, and my eyeballs will fall out.
It happens, doesn't it?
January 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the list fauxlyrical
Cool! How about joob (same source as crabalocker)?
January 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word joob
As in "goo goo goo joob" from I Am The Walrus.
January 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word crabalocker
And, with my typical aplomb, I realize after the fact that you have already done that, for the most part...
January 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word crabalocker
You know, madeupical words from songs would make a great list. Want to take a stab at it? You've already got two of my favorites--this one and pompatus.
January 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the user asativum
Fixed--thanks! The typography police are satisfied. :)
January 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word pompitous
Also (usually) spelled pompatus.
January 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word features
Me again, with the same old observation about images and videos on Wordie. Lord knows I love them, and I frequently link to them, but I avoid embedding them in my posts because this is Wordie, and it's supposed to be like Flickr but without the pictures, right? If it's just me, please let me know and I'll never comment on this again, but I really love the simple, uncluttered look of words on a page, sans images.
Really--I'll let this be if it's not an issue for any other Wordies, and no ill will is intended toward anyone.
January 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the user asativum
Asativum--I think you forgot to close an italics tag in your post on palindrome. On the comments page, everything after your post appears italicized, to me at least.
January 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word okeydokey
Often followed by "artichokey" in some circles...
January 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word pods
It happened to me in 1958, John. The original is much better.
January 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word pods
I'm with Uselessness. If we don't fight them over there, then they might learn where we actually live. They probably don't have maps.
January 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word typography
This YouTube video is a must for typography nerds. I know you're out there. Uselessness?...
January 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word thit
It isth tho a word...
January 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word triumph
You crack me up, uselessness...
January 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word palindrome
Ooh, ooh...isn't "Do be a do bee" one also? That's either from Frank Sinatra or Romper Room...
January 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word nigger baby
This term dredged up a memory that I had long repressed. Unshelled Brazil nuts, which we always got in our Christmas stockings growing up in the South, were called nigger toes. It was many years before I realized that they were actually called Brazil nuts.
January 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word nigger toes
A regrettable and derogatory term for Brazil nuts, commonly heard in the southern US when I was growing up.
January 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word turtle
Total, driving, pounding ecstasy...
January 25, 2008
skipvia commented on the word regale
Missed that one, reesetee. Sometimes the comments are so numerous that they just get away from me.
Hurray for chained_bear, though. You've got to go for the ILF pun...
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word ill will
It took me several seconds to decode that headline when I saw it on the Times web site. Ill (with a capital I) never looks right to me.
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word regale
I wonder what they say about us?
I'll avoid the obvious (but very tempting) pun on ILF...
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word masturbatorium
Today it would read "Do not enter Dr. Finch's masturbatorium." Dirk ejaculated anyway.
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word rambutan
Dorian's lesser-known first cousin...
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word velveeta
I guess Velveeta has more guar gum to make the cheese stand alone, to borrow a favorite phrase from chained_bear.
Where is she, anyway? A page like this will usually elicit some form of reaction from her.
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word puke bowl
Forgive me, but with all this talk about puke bowls and food processing, I can't get this image out of my mind.
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word puke bowl
Am I the only person that finds it ironic that the comments for puke bowl are interspersed with the comments for food processing?
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word algin
You don't want to take any chances with substandard mouth feel.
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word velveeta
Another fine cheese-like food product, brought to you by the same folks that manufacture Cheez Whiz.
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word food processing
Corndogs, maybe. Velveeta, never.
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word bunhead
A devotee of classical ballet. Also, derogatorily, a clueless driver (probably referring to an old lady).
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word carrageenan
A compound extracted from Irish moss (a type of seaweed) that is used in puddings, milk shakes and ice cream to stabilize and keep color and flavor even. See Still Hungry?
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word algin
A compound which is extracted from algae and used in puddings, milk shakes and ice cream to make these foods creamier and thicker and to extend shelf life. See Still Hungry?
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word food processing
So there's a spring in the upstairs portion of that building?
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the list public-list-still-hungry
Without them, there would be no Cheez Whiz!
(No licking your computer screen...)
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the list public-list-still-hungry
Very nice list, uselessness! It's a mystery to me why the food processing industry uses such unappealing terms for food...
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word gastroporn
The suggestive pictures and prose used to describe recipes in upscale cookbooks or menu items in fancy restaurants.
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word bun coverage
Like plate coverage, but this term refers to how completely a given food product covers the bun on which it is served. Different brands of chicken breasts seem to vie with each other for the best bun coverage since they are not uniformly shaped--at least, before processing. See Still Hungry?
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word eye appeal
Pretty obvious, but the food industry seems to particularly dislike liquids oozing from the sides of vegetable servings on a plate. See Still Hungry?
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word plate coverage
Plate coverage refers to the apparent volume of food received by a customer for a given cost. From one online journal:
"Since a serving of curlicue fries inherently includes a large volume of air, it appears larger than a like weight of conventional french fries. For example, the plate coverage provided by four ounces of conventional fries may require only three ounces of helical fries. This differential can be translated into higher profit margins for the retailer or can be passed on as more generous servings to the consumers."
See Still Hungry?
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word cohesiveness
Degree to which the sample deforms before rupturing when biting with molars. I love the specificity of this term. What about the bicuspids? See Still Hungry?
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word uniformity of chew
Degree to which the chewing characteristics of the product are even throughout mastication. See Still Hungry?
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word gumminess
Energy required to disintegrate a semi-solid food to a state ready for swallowing. See Still Hungry?
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word mouth feel
Also mouthfeel. Mouth feel has dozens of quantifiable variables, including gumminess, uniformity of chew, and cohesiveness. This Wikipedia article lists many more. See Still Hungry?
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word modified atmosphere packaging
The term used for methods that will help to maintain the quality of a food product by changing the atmosphere inside its retail package. For example, reduce the availability of oxygen or manipulate the levels of carbon dioxide. It produces a gas mix to maximize shelf life. See Still Hungry?
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word food processing
Using food as a raw material and changing it in some way to make a food product. See Still Hungry?
As opposed to actual food...
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word acceptable daily intake
The amount of chemical that, if ingested daily over a lifetime, appears to be without appreciable effect. See Still Hungry?
Appears to be?...
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word swingline
You guys have really sunk to a new low here.
*yawns*
Hey--maybe we could start listing snack food ingredients! :-)
January 24, 2008
skipvia commented on the word ceilidh
In western NC, where I first heard it, it's often pronounced with equal stress on both syllables: KAY-LEE.
January 23, 2008
skipvia commented on the list shindigs
I've always loved ceilidh, both as a word and as an event.
January 23, 2008
skipvia commented on the word huddie ledbetter
a.k.a. Leadbelly.
January 22, 2008
skipvia commented on the list in-the-name-of-all-that-is-good-and-holy
Oops...posted it and then saw it was there already. My bad...
January 22, 2008
skipvia commented on the list in-the-name-of-all-that-is-good-and-holy
How about the Word? (In the beginning, there was the Word...)
January 22, 2008
skipvia commented on the word stop tailpiece
a.k.a. stop-bar tailpiece; anchors guitar strings to the guitar body
January 22, 2008
skipvia commented on the word rest stop
Restroom facilities on major highways that remind you that you need to use the bathroom as soon as you pass them.
January 22, 2008
skipvia commented on the word pit stop
From auto racing, generally refers to taking a break for rejuvenation.
January 22, 2008
skipvia commented on the word copacabana
I'm trying, reesetee...
January 22, 2008
skipvia commented on the word screensaver
Aren't screensavers supposed to do their work when you're not looking at your screen? So who cares what they look like, or even if they are there at all?
*waits a few seconds until his fish tank appears*
January 22, 2008
skipvia commented on the word seasons in the sun
There's just something about a song about death being sung to an upbeat tempo that strikes me as wrong.
January 22, 2008
skipvia commented on the word snoopy and the red baron
There's always room for respectful disagreement over musical tastes, reesetee. But not here. This song blows chunks and it in no way fits any criteria for good songs, defined here as "songs that I like."
*hoping reesetee doesn't take him too seriously*
January 22, 2008
skipvia commented on the word snoopy and the red baron
Actually, no. That's some sort of Christmas bastardization of the original song. This is the the one I am referring to, performed by the Royal Guardsmen who seem to be channeling Freddie and the Dreamers. View at your own risk.
Why do you keep doing this, SoG?...
January 21, 2008
skipvia commented on the word seasons in the sun
Oh my god. I had repressed this one. I take back what I said about me and you and a dog named boo. It's the second worst song, right after this one.
I'm going to be sick...
January 21, 2008
skipvia commented on the word copacabana
Sorry, c_b. I've got to go with SoG on this one. Barry Manilow blows dead rats.
January 21, 2008
skipvia commented on the word snoopy and the red baron
This song is almost as awful as me and you and a dog named boo.
Actually, now that I think about it...
January 21, 2008
skipvia commented on the word ancient of days
Hey! Perhaps I could actually put my A.B. in Religion to use...
January 21, 2008
skipvia commented on the word me and you and a dog named boo
The thought of being reminded of it each time my phone rings makes me shudder.
Save yourself, asativum. Don't seek it out.
January 21, 2008
skipvia commented on the word me and you and a dog named boo
It's a conspiracy to melt our brains and make us all Republicans, I tell you...
January 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the list truly-awful-music
Any song by Bread. Or Gary Lewis and the Playboys.
Also Dino, Desi, and Billy.
January 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word timothy
This is probably the only song about cannibalism that is not in the death metal genre...
January 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word ob la di ob la da
It was a Carl Perkin's song that the Beatles covered on one of their early albums. Ringo did the vocals...
January 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word chicken dance
OK! There may be one song worse than me and you and a dog named boo, but only when accompanied by SoG's video.
January 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word bill and coo
It appears that Google Ads thinks "bill and coo" is Chinese slang:
Swear in Chinese $10
Downloadable Software PC/Mac Also Colors, Numbers, Body Parts
It's always important to learn a culture's vulgarities first, don't you think?
January 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word bill and coo
While you're at it, reesetee, you should probably try and get mollusque out of your head as well, since he wasn't the one who suggested it. :-)
(Reesetee hears voices in his head and does what they say. Be gentle with him.)
January 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word farewell-summer
Wonderful, treeseed.
January 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the list in-a-pickle
I'm staring at eight inches of new snow, thousands of miles from the nearest fried pickle with comeback sauce. Thanks, c_b... :)
Plus, I can't get me and you and a dog named boo out of my head. Better go skiing...
January 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the user skipvia
Wait...if it wasn't me and it wasn't you, who was it?
Has anyone seen seanahan lately?
January 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word ob la di ob la da
Honey Don't rules! ob la di ob la da rules! Is BIG CRIME to dis any Beatles song.
I'm with you, c_b. "Life goes on, AAHHHH, la lei la lei life goes on..."
Or something to that effect.
January 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word bill and coo
This probably also belongs on one of reesetee's many bird lists if it's not there already in some form or other.
January 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the user skipvia
I'd like to claim credit for that, folks, but it was not I who did the deed. I suspect our über-guru John had a hand it in.
It sure wasn't mi-vox.
January 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word me and you and a dog named boo
There is NO song worse than this one in the history of music on any planet in any galaxy. Kent Lavoie should be shot, as should anyone who ever plays this song again.
Dang it, now I'll be humming it all day...
January 20, 2008
skipvia commented on the word ukelin
A late 19th century bowed instrument that is a cross between a violin and a ukulele. I was surprised to find this short video of one being play on YouTube.
January 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word banjolele
I'm also reminded of an unusual instrument called the ukelin, a sort of a cross between a ukulele and a violin.
January 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word banjolele
Did I miss something, or were there only three of them?
January 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word manualism
That...is the best thing...I have ever seen.
January 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word banjolele
I've got one! It was my mother's back in the day. Very popular in the big band era. And, one was featured in the great 50's B movie "The Giant Gila Monster." Bet you didn't know that...
January 19, 2008
skipvia commented on the word treasure house
The name of Captain Kangaroo's house. I think this was also the title of his show at one point. See The Captain's Place.
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word tom terrific
I remember that they were mostly line drawings--very unusual for a cartoon back then.
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word oatmeal boxes
I made my mother fix oatmeal almost every day so that I could make all of the crafts that the Captain made from the cylindrical containers. See The Captain's Place.
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the list public-list-the-captain-s-place
How could I forget Dancing Bear?! (Maybe I suppressed the memory...)
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word mr. green jeans
Also--I remember a rumor that the actor that played Mr. Green Jeans was Frank Zappa's father...
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word magic drawing board
It seemed to draw all by itself! See The Captain's Place.
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word lariat sam
A cartoon on Captain Kangaroo's show. I was always disappointed when they showed Lariat Sam instead of Tom Terrific. See The Captain's Place.
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word banana man
Inventor of the bananaphone. See The Captain's Place.
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word isotope feeney
For some reason this name--one of Tom Terrific's enemies--has stuck with me all these years. See The Captain's Place.
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word crabby appleton
*earworm alert*
"My name is Crabby Appleton,
I'm rotten to the core.
I do a bad deed every day
And sometimes three or four."
See The Captain's Place.
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word mighty manfred
*earworm alert*
"I'm Mighty Manfred, UH, the Wonder Dog..."
See The Captain's Place.
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word thinking cap
Tom Terrific's funnel-shaped magic cap that allowed him to morph. See The Captain's Place.
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word tom terrific
Still one of my very favorite cartoon characters. See The Captain's Place.
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word grandfather clock
This character made me fearful around grandfather clocks for years. See The Captain's Place.
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word bunny rabbit
The oddly silent rabbit hand puppet with glasses. See The Captain's Place.
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word mr. moose
An avatar for Bullwinkle? See The Captain's Place.
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word mr. green jeans
The Captain's farmer friend. See The Captain's Place.
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word poshest
Really, really posh. You'll want your audiobook along, for sure.
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word word-loins
Geez, talk about pressure. I can't do it if you're watching me.
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word luncheon meat
Nobody seemed to be claiming this. It really should be chained_bear's.
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word this page intentionally left blank
Which kind of defeats the purpose...
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the user mi-vox
Hey kids! Let's fill in the rest of mi-vox's profile!
mi-vox's favorite word: poshest
mi-vox's least favorite word: vibrate mode
onomatopoeia that best describes mi-vox: doh!
mi-vox is a: spam-generating robot
seeking a: way to get traffic to his site since the product itself doesn't seem to be generating any interest, possibly because everyone already owns an ipod
also on: every other social networking site with lax spam filters
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word this page intentionally left blank
Seeing this phrase in a document always makes me smile.
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the user thesuperiorbeing
Actually, uselessness, maybe he has been taken up...
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the user thesuperiorbeing
I am dying to read a book in which stuff happens.
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word spelt
I'll wager the felt-dealt welt felt nothing like the belt-dealt welt felt.
*stops to proofread before posting*
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word spelt
It would have, had he used his belt instead of the felt.
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word word-loins
I was going to get around to that, reesetee... ;)
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word limerick
One of my favorites, largely because the last two lines are so much fun to say:
A tutor who tooted a flute
Tried to teach two young tooters to toot.
Said the two to the tutor,
"Is it harder to toot or
to tutor two tooters to toot?"
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word pimiento load
Ha! Reesetee, my typos will never be as disturbing as this one. "A rise from my boss?" Really? :-)
January 18, 2008
skipvia commented on the word pimiento load
My apologies. I must have been channeling my inner specific excrement.
January 17, 2008
skipvia commented on the word cotto salami
Oooh...with the little peppercorns in it?
January 17, 2008
skipvia commented on the list luncheon-meats
a.k.a. "meat-like food substance." Great image...
January 17, 2008
skipvia commented on the word pimiento load
OK, this might take some explaining. I tried to type pimiento loaf but it's late and I suck at typing anyway. But it has a certain ring to it..
January 17, 2008
skipvia commented on the word pimiento loaf
Asativum made this list. It wasn't me...
January 17, 2008
skipvia commented on the word cheese loaf
You don't really want to know. See luncheon meats.
January 17, 2008
skipvia commented on the list luncheon-meats
Oh my God. It happened. There's a list for luncheon meats.
Let's not forget cheese loaf, pimiento loaf, and...dare I say it...head cheese.
*wonders if he should post this comment at all*
January 17, 2008
skipvia commented on the list wordage
Well, I tried it with my broker. I wanted to acquire some US Treasuries, so I asked her if she would be into a little bondage. She threw me out.
I guess I'm just not as cool as seanahan...
January 17, 2008
skipvia commented on the list wordage
Did it work, seanahan? Because I might want to try it to increase my, ummm, coolage.
January 17, 2008
skipvia commented on the user mi-vox
The wordie treatment can be something to behold.
January 17, 2008
skipvia commented on the list wort-des-jahres
You took the words right out of my mouth, sionnach.
January 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word parenthood
Well, you have to grow old, but you don't have to grow up.
January 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word longbow
Very carefully. *rim shot*
January 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word gemsbok
How did I miss that one, yarb/arby/bray? It must have been one of those days that there were so many comments that I couldn't keep up...
January 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word gemsbok
Has anyone ever noticed that yarb and arby are anagrams and that they always agree with each other? Coincidence? I wonder...
January 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the word parenthood
Yarb, the best thing about parenthood is that babies grow up quickly. The worst thing is that babies grow up quickly.
January 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the list pretty-words-for-when-things-get-ugly
I've always liked train wreck, although it's a bit overused these days. Very descriptive, though.
It always reminds me of a very old National Lampoon IQ test parody. One of the questions read something like:
"The smoldering mass of twisted metal bore mute testimony to the fact that the _______ was ________.
a. vibrabed : defective
b. brakeman : Polish"
I don't remember the other choices...
January 16, 2008
skipvia commented on the list specific-excrement
Probably the first time I have seen meconium and "deliciously" in the same sentence.
January 15, 2008
skipvia commented on the list adoption-agency
Debbie and Warren are no longer here. They have been...dealt with...
January 15, 2008
skipvia commented on the word synctified
The feeling of well-being that comes over you when your phone, iPod, and address book are all in sync with each other.
January 15, 2008
skipvia commented on the word bogart
Well, it was the sixties...
January 15, 2008
skipvia commented on the list knots
So how come slipknot is on this list of yours but not on this one?
*waiting for the answer, which will surely be in the form of a pun*
January 15, 2008
skipvia commented on the list first-list-3
Too late for me, uselessness...
I remember reading some time ago about a gathering of people named Jim Smith. They all wore nametags.
January 15, 2008
skipvia commented on the list words-about-words-7
This list is a true gem, mollusque. Thanks.
January 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word vibrissa
Actually, it sounds more like something a posh woman would use to...ummm...Hey! How about those Patriots?
January 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word megalomaniacal micromegabibliophile
Right. Because then you'd be a pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconic megalomaniacal micromegabibliophile.
With a cherry on top!
January 13, 2008
skipvia commented on the word moon pie
Perhaps if you washed one down with a Grape Nehi...
January 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word hushpuppy
Absolutely, yarb. See also hush puppies.
January 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word megalomaniacal micromegabibliophile
I hope you never develop a lung disease from inhaling volcanic dust...
January 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word moon pie
Moon pies are definitely not limited to the northeast. They were a staple snack when I was growing up in South/North Carolina, usually consumed with an RC Cola.
January 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the list first-list-3
You're on, c_b! As long as we don't invite sionnach. That guy scares me...
January 12, 2008
skipvia commented on the word meatball sundae
You know, it wasn't too bad. In fact, I'm feeling a mite peckish...
January 11, 2008
skipvia commented on the word luncheon
Hey. I didn't bring up luncheon meats.
Wait...that doesn't sound right.
January 11, 2008
skipvia commented on the word wilk
Are you speaking of the shell or the flower? If it's the shell, I wonder if it's related to welk?
I bet mollusque would know that...
January 11, 2008
skipvia commented on the word meatball sundae
I was actually served one of these once--at least a variation of it. At the original Red Robin in Seattle (right down near Lake Union--I think it's still there) I had a hamburger patty with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, and a pickle as a dessert. It was surprisingly edible, but I was also a poor graduate student so I probably would have eaten anything...
January 11, 2008
skipvia commented on the word luncheon
OK--I guess sometimes a hot dog sticking straight up from a vat of pork 'n' beans is just a hot dog sticking straight up from...
Nope...can't buy it. It still looks like an X-rated synchronized swimming event to me.
January 11, 2008
skipvia commented on the word priapic
See priapus.
January 11, 2008
skipvia commented on the word luncheon
Can you imagine not breaking into peals of laughter if you saw that in a buffet line? It looks like a bunch of priapic elves doing the backstroke.
January 11, 2008
skipvia commented on the list carolina-on-my-mind
True enough, pomegranate. It's like stepping back in time, no?
January 11, 2008
skipvia commented on the word spelling
This may be opening old wounds, but check here for a mind-muddling orgy of misspellings and strange grammatical twists (including the ever-popular "random" use of "quotes").
January 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the list carolina-on-my-mind
Ah--take me home! Ocracoke--one of the finest places on earth. Lizard Lick and Frog Level have been mentioned elsewhere on Wordie. Then there's Saxapahaw, Maiden, Little Switzerland...
January 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word okra-mohel
I will try and remember all you little people when the reviews come out.
*adjusts sunglasses, even though he is indoors*
January 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word okra
Actually, Charleston is not my okra-homa. It's Rock Hill.
Many people point out how much I resemble Johnny Depp. Which is not at all.
January 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word imho
Still, too hasty with the pastey is a wonderful phrase!
January 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word okra
What yarb said. I spent a lot of my early years doing exactly that (okra grows in profusion in South Carolina) and now I want to know what to call it.
January 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word imho
Ummm...no difference at all, there, yarb.
January 10, 2008
skipvia commented on the word greenwood
Under the greenwood tree,
Who loves to lie with me,
And tune his merry note
Unto the sweet bird's throat,
Come hither, come hither, come hither:
Here shall he see
No enemy
But winter and rough weather.
January 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word luncheon
Mmmm...luncheon meats.
January 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word nar'n
Probably a contraction for "nary a one," as in "I went looking for ramps yesterday but there was nar'n to be had." This is commonly heard in eastern and central North Carolina but I have never seen it in print. I have no idea if this is how it's spelled. (Or should I say spelt?) It rhymes with "cairn."
January 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word gubbertush
This almost qualifies as an onomatopoeia.
January 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word gugusse
So, what's a priest with a penchant for young men? Oh...never mind.
January 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word imho
Also "in my humble opinion" in some circles.
January 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the list carry-me-back-to-old-virginia
Well, we can easily fix that, reesetee... :-)
January 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word luncheon
Strangely enough, nuncheon also sounds like something you'd use to smack someone--kind of a cross between nunchucks and a truncheon.
January 9, 2008
skipvia commented on the word luncheon
Right up there with eatery on my list. It sounds like something you'd use to smack someone.
January 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word crisisisisisin
Excellent, seanahan...
January 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the list carry-me-back-to-old-virginia
And, of course, you have not lived until you have tried boiled peanuts.
January 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the list first-list-3
This would make a wonderful public list--the best words ever (legitimately) found while playing Boggle. I'll have to get the set out later tonight...
January 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word alluvione
Reesetee--face SOUTH, not north, when you go there. My bad...
January 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word alluvione
You can find the spot on Google Earth, reseetee. Go to 68Ëš 27' 37.42" N 149Ëš 16' 13.60" W and face north. Level out the terrain a bit and you'll see a gap between two peaks with an alluvial outwash. That's the spot.
EDIT: I should have said "face south" and not north, as the original post suggested.
January 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word smart classrooms
Ooh--good one, reesetee.
January 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the user chained_bear
So--fart jokes are still okay, right?
January 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word pork 'n' beans
I love that book! Who knew you could make an entire dinner using 7-Up in every recipe?
January 8, 2008
skipvia commented on the word smart classrooms
On most campuses, classrooms outfitted with projectors and other media tools. What does that say about the other classrooms?
January 7, 2008
skipvia commented on the word learning cottage
At our institution (no pun intended) we have some smart classrooms. I've often wondered how you should refer to the classrooms that aren't "smart."
January 7, 2008
skipvia commented on the word learning cottage
That is so...sad.
January 7, 2008
skipvia commented on the word metaphotography
I think some of us (myself included) may have been reacting as much to the very obvious spam from ridesearch earlier the same day as we were to metaphotography's post. When your username is the name of your first post and your website, the tendency is to dismiss the post as spam even though it may not be.
I'd echo the apologies from other Wordies, but I think assuming your post was spam was an easy mistake to make given that you never defined metaphotography or explained your image.
I'd look forward to more information about your topic, and perhaps some links to examples.
January 7, 2008
skipvia commented on the word like to
A bit of evidence that many current Southernisms hark back to Elizabethan English:
"Tho' ye subjoct be but a fart, yet will this tedious sink of learning pondrously phillosophize. Meantime did the foul and deadly stink pervade all places to that degree, yt never smelt I ye like, yet dare I not to leave ye presence, albeit I was like to suffocate."
Mark Twain, 1601. See the list Firmament-Clogging Rottenness.
January 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word metaphotography
Meta-spam...
January 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word alluvione
I actually saw this happen once, in ANWR during a hellacious thunder storm. It was the most awesome sight I have ever seen. The lake was at the top of an 800 ft. precipice, blocked by snow and ice. The storm caused it to give way. The resulting snow/ice/water/boulder slide was indescribable. The maps of the area changed after that.
Two ironies: Thirty minutes earlier we had been directly under that precipice, and I had put my video camera away due to the storm.
January 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the list tonifilipo-s-list
What happened to ggggggg?
January 6, 2008
skipvia commented on the word flipper pie
Sounds like a job for Beaver Cleaver!
January 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the list carry-me-back-to-old-virginia
Pretty tough to beat Chincoteague and Assateague, either for tongue-tickling or for jaw-dropping natural beauty.
January 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the word thin mint
Sammy Sosa? I think he's from the Dominican Republic.
January 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the word beenie weenies
See pork 'n' beans.
January 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the word pork 'n' beans
Mmmm...Beenie Weenies. Hey, you can make your own, according to the worst recipe site I have ever seen.
Note to web designers: view at your own risk.
Note to cooks: see note to web designers.
January 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the list firmament-clogging-rotteness
It gets even better when you get past the flatulence conversation, uselessness.
January 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the word aboiement
Be careful what you ask for, yarb.
January 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the word visualizar
That...is the coolest thing...I have ever seen.
January 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the word barfly
I was quite advanced in years before I realized that this word was not an adjective.
January 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the word gift horse
I think you may be looking at the wrong end, there, bilby.
January 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the word aboiement
In a two-year old, it's cute as a button. In reesetee, it's...troubling...
January 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the word vorarephilia
It sounds like the gene pool could use just a bit more cleansing...
January 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the list firmament-clogging-rotteness
I noticed that. I kind of wonder what sionnach has been reading lately...
January 5, 2008
skipvia commented on the word vorarephilia
Thereby cleaning up the gene pool somewhat...
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the list firmament-clogging-rotteness
I'm sure it led to a massive case of proctalgia for all involved.
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word aboiement
The involuntary blurting out of animal noises. Yes, we have a word for this.
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word agastopia
The admiration of a part of someone's body.
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word nether throat
See the list Firmament-Clogging Rottenness.
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word fart
See the list Firmament-Clogging Rottenness.
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word breake wind
See the list Firmament-Clogging Rottenness.
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word thundergust
See the list Firmament-Clogging Rottenness.
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word rich o'ermastering fog
See the list Firmament-Clogging Rottenness.
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word fragrant gloom
See the list Firmament-Clogging Rottenness.
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word mousie-squeak
See the list Firmament-Clogging Rottenness.
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word blow a harricane
See the list Firmament-Clogging Rottenness.
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word a stench so all-pervading and immortal
See the list Firmament-Clogging Rottenness.
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word foul and deadly stink
See the list Firmament-Clogging Rottenness.
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word desolating breath
See the list Firmament-Clogging Rottenness.
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word quaking thunders
See the list Firmament-Clogging Rottenness.
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word firmament-clogging rottenness
See the list Firmament-Clogging Rottenness.
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word heaven's artillery
See the list Firmament-Clogging Rottenness.
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word clear my nether throat
See the list Firmament-Clogging Rottenness.
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word godless and rock-shivering blast
See the list Firmament-Clogging Rottenness.
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word nether throat
"Sr W.--Most gracious maisty, 'twas I that did it, but indeed it was so poor and frail a note, compared with such as I am wont to furnish, yt in sooth I was ashamed to call the weakling mine in so august a presence. It was nothing--less than nothing, madam--I did it but to clear my nether throat; but had I come prepared, then had I delivered something worthy. Bear with me, please your grace, till I can make amends."
Mark Twain, 1601; Conversation As it was by the Social Fireside in the Time of the Tudors
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word nether wallop
I can't help but think of Mark Twain's wonderful reference to one's nether throat.
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word cute as a button
I've always thought (with absolutely no proof) that it referred to a small ('button") mushroom. You know, little cap, bowing gently...
We always referred to small mushrooms as "buttons."
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word cute as the dickens
Who is this "Dickens," anyway. I've heard the name used in a variety of ways, including:
"He's a little dickens." (He's a troublemaker.)
"That hurt like the dickens." (That hurt...ummm...a lot.)
"What the dickens do you mean by that?" (Pretty obvious...)
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word hoppin' johns
C_B: Pretty much any way you cut it (har!), this meal has a high flatulence coefficient.
We often had cabbage instead of turnip or collard greens when fresh ones weren't available, so sauerkraut counts!
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word charleston square
Mmmmm...
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word hoppin' johns
Blackeyed peas (or in some circles blackeye peas) cooked with rice. Traditionally served on New Year's Day along with ham and greens for good luck during the next year. Blackeyed peas represent coins, the greens represent folding money, and ham symbolizes good luck, according to my mom...
January 4, 2008
skipvia commented on the word show low
A town in east-central Arizona, so named because of a poker game that deeded most of the town to the winner.
January 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the list place-names-of-distinction
We'll have to make sure and stop by Show Low, Arizona on that trip, bilby. It's right on Deuce of Clubs Road, down below Holbrook. A beautiful spot, indeed...
January 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word eek
A small Yupik village in Southwest Alaska. The name translates as our eyes.
January 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the list place-names-of-distinction
There's a village in Alaska named Eek. It's actually a Yupik name meaning "our eyes." A well-known Native artist named Chuna is from Eek.
January 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word lizard lick
A small unincorporated settlement in North Carolina. Really not much more than a stoplight, which was only installed in 1997.
January 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word waspwaisted
If that doesn't describe Vampira (a.k.a. Maila Nurmi), nothing does.
January 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word frog level
A small hamlet in eastern NC.
January 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word onancock
A small hamlet in the Virginia part of the Delmarva Peninsula.
January 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the list place-names-of-distinction
Not too far from Lizard Lick, NC, is a little place called Frog Level.
And then there is the oddly-named Onancock, VA. Sort of makes you wonder what the cartographer was thinking...
January 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the word aspergum
Me too, reesetee. It had an interesting combination of sweet, sour, and...ummm...medical tastes. I relished the initial flavor burst.
I thought I was alone in this...
January 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the list that-is-not-a-christmas-word
Dang it. I had to go look up fromunda cheese. Now I know. And you can too, if you dare.
Kind of an interesting etymology, actually...
January 1, 2008
skipvia commented on the list tip-top-toponymic
Very interesting list! Madras and frankfurter come to mind...
December 31, 2007
skipvia commented on the word pricks
I know just how Jotham feels. I work with a bunch of them...
December 31, 2007
skipvia commented on the word uva
Jennaren--among the many ways I disappointed my father was not going there, as did he and most of my family on that side. But I heard a lot about it. And Charlottesville is one of my favorite places on earth.
You can stop sobbing now, bilby--UVA is the University of Virginia.
December 31, 2007
skipvia commented on the word dedeckaheavedron
Twelve regular people, to be sure... ;)
December 30, 2007
skipvia commented on the word uva
Only a cavalier would get this one. Nice, jennaren...
December 30, 2007
skipvia commented on the word dedeckaheavedron
The act of throwing someone off of your deck.
December 30, 2007
skipvia commented on the word depatiate
To throw someone off of a patio. See defenestrate and deponticate.
December 30, 2007
skipvia commented on the word defenestration
I suspect, bilby, that it's because the act it describes is so singularly rare. We don't have a word like "deportification" to describe the more common occurrence of throwing people out of doors, for example. (Although, see deponticate...]
December 30, 2007
skipvia commented on the word deportification
Hey, if we have defenestrate and deponticate, don't we need a word that means throwing people out of a door?
December 30, 2007
skipvia commented on the list contest-match-the-onomatopoeia
Sweet, oroboros! Maybe we should start a new contest...
December 30, 2007
skipvia commented on the word esteroid
New Year's Eve is also quite...ummm...spectacular.
December 28, 2007
skipvia commented on the list demonyms
I'm an esteroid--a resident of Ester, Alaska.
December 28, 2007
skipvia commented on the word esteroid
A resident of Ester, AK. Esteroids are known for their irreverent (and tons of fun) Fourth of July celebrations.
December 28, 2007
skipvia commented on the word merry christmas
Merry Mirth Sacs to one and all!
December 23, 2007
skipvia commented on the list real-names
Added, rolig. Thanks.
December 23, 2007
skipvia commented on the list in-excelsis-deo
Figgy pudding. (Just what is that, anyway?..)
December 22, 2007
skipvia commented on the list in-excelsis-deo
"And it came to pass..."
December 22, 2007
skipvia commented on the word merry christmas
I'm with you, SoG. I love the lights, the mythology, the music, the celebrations, and being with family. (What's not to like?) I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and I enjoy it when then wish me the same. I don't believe in supernatural events, but I love stories about them.
December 21, 2007
skipvia commented on the word poster child
This should be sionnach's post...
December 21, 2007
skipvia commented on the word posttest
A test given after instruction to gauge learning.
December 21, 2007
skipvia commented on the list going-postal
Thanks to michaelchang, mollydot, and mollusque for postscript, postern, and preposterous. I'm going to skip michaelchang's suggestion of post-production because I wanted to avoid words created by adding post- so that the list wouldn't have 3,000 post-electric-grunge-type entries. (Post-haste is an exception, since it doesn't mean "after haste.")
December 21, 2007
skipvia commented on the word posthole digger
Well, you'd have to be dumb as a post to hop into a posthole, so I guess you could be right, reesetee.
December 21, 2007
skipvia commented on the word bugs
Same problem as SoG--500 Application Error when I try to tag a word.
December 21, 2007
skipvia commented on the list going-postal
Thanks, minerva. I don't know why I didn't think of post-haste.
December 21, 2007
skipvia commented on the word postnasal
Drip, drip, drip...
December 21, 2007
skipvia commented on the word postal
In the vernacular, to lose control and commit an irrational, usually violent act.
December 21, 2007
skipvia commented on the word post up
In basketball, to establish a position near the basket, usually to take advantage of a smaller player. Also urban slang, "to hang out."
December 21, 2007
skipvia commented on the word posthole digger
Someone who is, like, really into postholes.
December 21, 2007
skipvia commented on the word posthole
This is one of those words that doesn't immediately strike me as a compound word.
WeirdNet got this one right, at least.
December 21, 2007
skipvia commented on the word whipping post
Awful image, great tune...
December 21, 2007
skipvia commented on the word milepost
WeirdNet notwithstanding, we don't make them out of stone. Anymore.
December 21, 2007
skipvia commented on the word milepost
Many addresses in Alaska are given as milepost values--e.g., Mile 263, Parks Highway.
(We use the term highway loosely here.)
December 21, 2007
skipvia commented on the list want-a-piece-of-me
Or the sweat of my brow?
December 21, 2007
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