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Jan 6, 2020
This week’s themeUnusual synonyms This week’s words ombrifuge exemplum splanchnic singultus indagate 
Illustration: Ken Wong
A.Word.A.Day
with Anu GargWhy not? In many cases, that’s a pretty good response to a “Why?” Why take a dip in icy waters? Why not? Why have ice cream for breakfast? Why not? That’s just a couple of examples, but I think we should use “Why not?” more often, especially when deciding which word to use. Of course, we should use a word only when it fits, but what if there are two words that fit and you want to use the one that’s more fun, even if a little obscure? Why not? That’s our guiding principle in this week’s words. We share with you five unusual synonyms of everyday words. What you do with them is up to you. When in doubt, think: Why not? ombrifuge
PRONUNCIATION:
(OM-bruh-fyoozh)
MEANING:
noun: Something that provides protection from the rain, especially an umbrella.
ETYMOLOGY:
From Greek ombro- (rain shower) + -fuge (repelling). Earliest documented
use: 1869.
USAGE:
“When you are caught in a shower and spot a convenient ombrifuge ...
should you run to it or walk?” The Independent (London, UK); Apr 30, 1998. A THOUGHT FOR TODAY:
Hate is a dead thing. Who of you would be a tomb? -Kahlil Gibran, poet and
artist (6 Jan 1883-1931)
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