Wordsmith.Org


A.Word.A.Day

About | Media | Search | Contact  


Home

Today's Word

Yesterday's Word

Archives

FAQ


Jul 31, 2001
This week's theme
Words evolved using folk etymologies

This week's words
humble_pie
kickshaw
wiseacre
rakehell
chaise longue
Follow us on Twitter
Discuss
Feedback
RSS/XML
Bookmark and Share Facebook Twitter Digg MySpace Bookmark and Share
A.Word.A.Day
with Anu Garg

kickshaw

Pronunciation RealAudio

kickshaw (KIK-shaw) noun

1. A fancy dish; delicacy.

2. A trinket.

[By folk etymology, from French quelque chose, something.]

"They were the first to get into Victorian, into Arts & Crafts and Art Deco, into painted furniture, into ethnic, and kickshaws, and collectibles."
Margo Miller, Art of the Deal, The Boston Globe, Dec 12, 1996.

X-Bonus

The two most engaging powers of an author are to make new things familiar, and familiar things new. -Samuel Johnson, lexicographer (1709-1784)

We need your help

Help us continue to spread the magic of words to readers everywhere

Donate

Subscriber Services
Awards | Stats | Links | Privacy Policy
Contribute | Advertise

© 1994-2024 Wordsmith