Words. I love words. I like to write, speak and read them. You too must be a word lover, or you would not be reading this column—regardless of how adorable I look at the top. So that is why each year I get excited when the Oxford English Dictionary issues its new words for the year. Some already are part of my vocabulary, and others will be soon. So, let me give you my favorites from the 350 added this year.
Crazy-pants: Seriously, how was this not a recognized word before now? I have been using it for years—often to describe myself! It means a person completely lacking in common sense, reason or intelligence; a highly-eccentric person. It is often used in a derogatory manner. When someone referred to me in this manner, I was not flattered. I think it ties in nicely with another new word, freako. Freako is a highly unconventional person who may be regarded as strange. Be honest. Someone you know just popped into your head.
Cheddar: Money, i.e. “I don’t have enough cheddar for a new car.” I have no idea why this cheese has been selected instead of fontina or brie, but it makes sense they would not choose Swiss or American cheese. Highly unlikely I will use this word, but let me know if you do and how people react.
Confuddle: I love words that combine two words like flustrated, which did not make it into this year’s list but should have. Confuddle means in a state of extreme confusion especially when trying to problem solve. This one will be in heavy rotation for me. Watch for it in future columns.
Groomzilla: Finally, the male version of bridezilla! It means a man who is obsessive or overbearing in planning their wedding. Groomzillas are out there in nature, but they tend to hide themselves behind the term “detail-oriented.” We all know the truth.
Lamester: A dull, unimpressive person who is socially inept. Again, you know someone who fits this word, but please do not be a meanie and call them one to their face. Wait and do it behind their back.
Easy-rider: A person viewed as representing freedom from responsibility, typically a motorcyclist. Next time you are driving down the highway see if you can pick one out. I suspect they will be zooming past you.
Apricity: Just in time for the weather turning cooler, it means the warmth of the sun during the winter. Use it in a sentence this winter and see if anyone has any idea what you mean. I think use of this word should admit you to Mensa.
Porch pirate: I hope you have never experienced one of these people. They are individuals that steal parcels or packages left at your door from places like Amazon. You can only hope that when they strike, it is when your package contains FiberCon.
Dap: I think this word should have an age limit. You cannot say it if you are under the age of 30. It means a casual gesture of greeting, acknowledgement or affirmation, typically slapping palms, bumping fists or snapping fingers. I’m not sure that you should be doing anything other than shaking hands if you’re over the age of 30.
So, there you have it, my favorite words from the 350. Do your best to use them this week, except for dap and cheddar—just because you can say something does not mean you should. Peace my peeps.
