Rabbit Trail: Uncommon words
Estimated time: 10 minutes
As we read, we'll come across words that might seem a bit odd or unfamiliar. That's because some of these words are no longer used in our everyday language, and others are British English terms that might not be common in American English. Let's take a deeper look at some of these.
Atomies
- Book 1, Chapter 5
- Refers to a skeleton
- Usage of this word has dropped off dramatically since the 1800s in both British and American English.
Apostrophise
- Book 2, Chapter 5
- "But it's not worth your while to apostrophise me...."
- The definition is to address a passage in speech to someone. The connotation here seems to be equivalent to, "No need to lecture me about it."
- This word just isn't used anymore.
Pillory
- Book 2, Chapter 2.
- See the link below to read more and see a drawing.
pillory | Definition, History, & Examples
Pillory, an instrument of corporal punishment consisting of a wooden post and frame fixed on a platform raised several feet from the ground. The head and hands of the offender were thrust through holes in the frame (as were the feet in the stocks) so as to be held fast and exposed in front of it.
Can anyone think of a word you've heard or read that seems old-fashioned or that you know is specific to British English?
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