This week’s theme
Words that aren’t what they seem

This week’s words
quotennial
philocynic
obviate
mamaguy
diplomatics

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A.Word.A.Day

PRONUNCIATION:

(MA-muh-gai)

MEANING:

verb tr.: To tease or deceive, especially by flattery.
noun: An instance of this.

ETYMOLOGY:

From Spanish mamar gallo (to suckle a rooster).

NOTES:

The word has nothing to do with a mama or a guy. It is from Caribbean English, especially from Trinidad. It has its origins in cock-fighting, apparently referring to a rooster who is gently sucking at his opponent instead of pecking him with force.

USAGE:

“’And I find your skin and all looking nice.’
‘Hush your mouth. Mamaguying an old woman like me.’”
Ingrid Persaud; Love After Love; Random House; 2021.

A THOUGHT FOR TODAY: