MMeM, Vol.9 Issue 9 – “new” terms

Have you ever noticed how certain words or terms change over time? I do. I’m also interested in the “announcements” that Dictionaries make about adding a new word to their database of English words and terms.

This seems to happen a lot these days with the advancement of Internet lingo and terms. I always think it’s neat when a big Dictionary adopts a current popular word or term. But, I immediately wonder when I can next use the new “official” word.

Anyway, in terms of changing or updating one word or term, sometimes it’s a real good thing.

The best example of this that comes to mind is the term “flip flops”. Of course, I’m old enough to remember when we all called “flip flops” “thongs”. My how times change huh? Now, you feel like a pedophile when you accidentally ask your daughter where her thongs are.

Just me? maybe but it’s really jarring when she immediately answers, “In my dresser!”