GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN
12 Words That Should Make a Comeback
Published on December 19, 2023
Image: Glen Carrie
The amazing trove of the American lexicon contains a world of expressions that have gracefully faded into antiquity. These words, once the staples of everyday talk, have become buried treasures waiting to be rediscovered. You should not, by any means, feel offended if any of these words is an active part of your current vocabulary. But know that if that is the case, you belong to a select few who still keep their proverbial linguistic flames alive until a new generation brings it back to the colloquial spotlight.
Jalopy
Image: Remi Jacquaint
Coined in the 1920s, the term "jalopy" refers to a dilapidated, often unreliable, and outdated car. Usually seen traveling backroads, loaded to the brim, these vehicles were all over the country during the Depression Era and beyond.
Though the jalopy may no longer roam through our highways, its place in the lexicon serves as a fond reminder of a bygone era.
Zephyr
Image: Saad Chaudhry
Taken from the Greek god of the west wind, Zephyrus, this term has endured centuries to become synonymous with a soft, mild breeze. Over time, "zephyr" transcended its mythological origins and found its place in the English language to evoke the sensation of a delicate, cool wind.
Today, this old-timer word will pop up from time to time, offering a touch of elegance and an enduring link to a past era.
Galoshes
Image: Kelly Sikkema
"Galoshes" is a word that conjures images of rainy days and puddle-jumping escapades. Its roots can be traced to the 14th-century Middle English term galoche, which was a clog or wooden shoe. Eventually, the word was used to describe a protective overshoe worn to shield one's footwear from the weather.
Then, in the 19th century, as practicality met fashion, galoshes became synonymous with rubber or waterproof overshoes, providing a solid defense against rain and mud. These days, the term "galoshes" stands as a charming linguistic vestige, sometimes brought up by grandmothers and old folks.
Baloney
Image: Schwerdhoefer
"Baloney" is synonymous with nonsense or foolishness. This word's origin remains a subject of debate. Some suggest there's a connection to the bologna sausage, often made with a mixture of various types of meat. Regardless of its roots, "baloney" serves as a slightly antiquated expression to dismiss exaggerations in a conversation.
Fiddlesticks
Image: Joel Wincott
Used to downplay annoyance or disappointment, the term "fiddlesticks" embodies a bygone era's knack for creative, yet polite, phrases. Despite its archaic nature, the word retains its place as a linguistic relic, offering a quirky way to convey a touch of exasperation or incredulity. Originating in the 17th century, this word is a metaphorical alternative to stronger, potentially rude expressions.
Whippersnapper
Image: Zachary Nelson
"Whippersnapper" describes a young, usually impudent person who exhibits confidence beyond their years. Coined in the 17th century, it combines "whip," suggesting a quick or smart action, with "snapper," implying a sharp reply.
This word expresses a certain contempt for youthful audacity with a bit of humor. Originating in an era where respect for elders was fundamental, "whippersnapper" reflects the feelings of an older generation astonished by the impertinence of the young.
Gobemouche
Image: Samuel Scrimshaw
Not the greatest of terms to be associated with, gobemouche comes from the French language, where it translates to "mouth-gaper." Hailing from the 18th century, this old-timer word refers to a gullible or easily deceived person, someone who eagerly swallows information without skepticism. It originates in the idea of a wide-open mouth, ready to accept anything fed to it.
Respair
Image: Eli DeFaria
Working as a diametrically opposed concept to "despair", the word "respair" expresses renewed hope or reprieve after a period of distress. It is rooted in the Latin respirare, meaning to breathe.
Even though it was eclipsed by its more commonly used synonym, "hope," this antiquated but poetic gem transmits the beauty of resilience, offering comfort in the face of life's trials.
Gigglemug
Image: Lesly Juarez
"Gigglemug" is a charming term that describes an individual with an infectious or constant smile. This simple blend of "giggle" and "mug" originated in the joyous 1920s era. While the term may have faded from the contemporary lexicon, it evokes images of carefree laughter and an era when a light-hearted spirit was celebrated with the endearing nickname of "gigglemug."
Hotsy-totsy
Image: Carrie Borden
Another term that came from the roaring twenties, "hotly-totsy" expresses the happy-go-lucky spirit of the Jazz Age. This phrase describes something fashionable and trendy. It originates in the combination of the words "hot" for trendy and "otsy" as an embellishment.
Though relegated to the past, "hotsy-totsy" remains a linguistic memory of an era when the pursuit of what was fashionable was an acceptable occupation. Not so unlike the present times for many celebrities.
Whooperup
Image: Andrew Foster
"Whooperup" is a term of a similar spirit to the ones just described but hailing from a very different environment: the American frontier. It described a sense of noisy enthusiasm and lively commotion.
A "whooperup" is someone or something that stirs up excitement or engages in joyous partying. The word combines "whoop," an exuberant expression, with "up," emphasizing a high degree of passion. While it may sound a bit wild these days, it was quite fitting for the era when it was born.
Pang-wangle
Image: Benjamin Davies
A phrase meant to describe individuals who accomplish their goals while enduring misfortunes, "pang-wangle" was coined in the 18th century. It encourages the recipient to remain upbeat and succeed in coming out victoriously of an unpleasant or tricky situation. While it is certainly not a term in current use, its meaning is quite an uplifting one and more than deserving to make a comeback.
