Language evolves over time as a result of changes in society, influences from other languages, and technological advancements – the English language is no exception to this. However there are times when Old English words that have become obsolete can re-enter a language for everyday use. Thanks to one team of linguists research, a list of obsolete words that have been revived due to their rather unique relevance to today’s social landscape…
Bring Those Old English Words Back!
The English language is estimated to contain a quarter of a million words, but about a fifth of them are no longer in use. This led one team of linguists headed by Dr. Dominic Watt at the University of York to conduct research on words in Old English that still apply today.
His team worked on what they called ‘The Lost Words” campaign, and were able to identify 30 old English vocabulary terms that they believed could in fact come back into modern everyday conversation and re-enter mainstream usage.
We decided to take a look at the list and choose the eleven we felt you would be most likely to hear in the near future – so the next time your friend says “Stop being a slug-a-bed and let’s play a game!” or “I’m not playing checkers with you ever again you Nickum!” you will be prepared!
10 Old English Words You Should Add To Your Vocabulary Immediately
1. Ambodexter
n: A person who will take bribes from all sides.
2. Slug-a-bed
n: A lazy individual who spends a long time in bed.
3. Hugger-mugger
n., adj., and adv: Refers to secrecy, to do something in secret, or to be secretive. A more modern definition would refer to a confusion or muddle. It can be found used in Shakespearean literature.
4. Nickum
n: A person who cheats or is otherwise dishonest.
5. Betrump
v: To cheat or elude, to deceive.
6. Rouker
n: A person who tells or spreads rumors.
7. Rouzy-bouzy
adj: A lighthearted way to describe a cheerful and energetic individual who has imbibed a bit too much.
8. Ruff
v: The action of swaggering or being arrogant. Can also refer to boasting about something.
9. Dowsabel
n: A sweetheart or ‘lady-love’.
10. Parget
v: “To daub or plaster (the face or body) with powder or paint; to cover with cosmetic.”
11. Snout-fair
adj: An attractive or handsome individual.
Which Old English words do you think have the best chance of making it back into everyday conversation? Let us know in the comments!
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