COUNTERWORD

Etymology

Noun

counterword (plural counterwords)

A word (for example so) that is frequently used in a reflex-like manner in an answer and that has thereby quickly taken on a new, much less specific or much looser meaning or is even almost meaningless and performs a completely new function.

Such a word (or a word that has gone through a similar change) when not used as a reflex-like answer.

Usage notes

Since such change occurs much more rapidly than the change in meaning all words go through, and since such words are even sometimes still simultaneously used in their original sense, the new usage is often considered incorrect by some speakers. Other examples include nice, terrific, terrible, awful, tremendous, and swell.

Source: Wiktionary



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Word of the Day

5 November 2024

TEMPORIZE

(verb) draw out a discussion or process in order to gain time; “The speaker temporized in order to delay the vote”


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Coffee Trivia

Raw coffee beans, soaked in water and spices, are chewed like candy in many parts of Africa.

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