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A.Word.A.Day--teflon

Teflon (TEF-lon)

1. A trademark used for a waxy, opaque material, polytetrafluoroethylene, employed as a coating on cooking utensils and in industrial applications to prevent sticking.

adjective

Characterized by imperviousness to blame or criticism.

[From the trademark.]

"Gov. Fife Symington said Thursday he will run for re-election in 1998, confident of victory in the face of a federal criminal trial and bankruptcy. The announcement provoked joyful comments from Symington's supporters and measured skepticism from his opponents, who were forced to admit the teflon governor may have the popularity to get re-elected." Arizona Gov. Fife Symington to run for re-election, Las Vegas Review-Journal, Feb 14, 1997.

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Email FIVE@wordsmith.org to vote that AWAD should take a break on weekends. Email SEVEN@wordsmith.org if you would like AWAD to continue with daily mailings. -Anu

This week's theme: brand names that have entered the dictionary.

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