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Dec 1, 2010
This week's themeWords with unusual initial consonants
This week's words
sforzando
kvetch
tmesis
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A.Word.A.Day
with Anu Gargtmesis
PRONUNCIATION:
(tuh-MEE-sis, TMEE-sis)
MEANING:
noun: Stuffing a word into the middle of another word.Examples: a-whole-nother, abso-bloody-lutely.
ETYMOLOGY:
From Greek tmesis (a cutting), from temnein (to cut). Ultimately from the Indo-European root tem- (to cut), which is also the source of tonsure, temple, contemplate, epitome, tome, anatomy, and atomy. First recorded use: 1586. USAGE:
"I don't like tmesis; it's abso-bloody-lutely ri-flipping-diculous."Gazza's Decline is a Sad Waste of Talent; Daily Star (London, UK); Oct 25, 2010.
Explore "tmesis" in the Visual Thesaurus.
A THOUGHT FOR TODAY:
Public opinion rarely considers the needs of the next generation or the history of the last. It is frequently hampered by myths and misinformation, by stereotypes and shibboleths, and by an inate resistance to innovation. -Theodore C. Sorensen, presidential advisor, lawyer, and writer (1928-2010) Rave reviews for the word game Orijinz "WOW!! WHAT FUN!" "Great great GREAT" A fun holiday gift. Only $14.95. | Need a good dentist or doctor? Find best dentists and doctors with local unbiased reviews at Angie's List |
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