What Did They Say?: A Glimpse into 18th and 19th Anachronistic Vocabulary
Learning anachronistic eighteenth and nineteenth-century words might not seem like the most thrilling activity for some of us, but it can actually be quite useful for genealogists. By understanding words like “fazzolet” and “peradventure” we can gain a deeper appreciation for historical texts and better understand the cultural context in which they were written.
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About Author
Katharine Korte Andrew
Katharine Korte Andrew is a professional genealogist, author, and educator. She holds a BA in Germanic Studies and Political Science, and a Master of Library and Information Science. She is a frequent lecturer on diverse topics such as German-speaking records, Midwestern USA research, Quaker records, women's history, and institutional genealogy. Katharine is the owner of KKA Genealogy LLC, managing editor of the National Genealogical Society's NGS Monthly, and Director of the Hinsdale Historical Society.
Then there are the words we invent that don’t exist but maybe should. When I was little, we ran around everywhere barefoot. Invariably, I would stub my big toe on the edge of uneven concrete pavement sections and scrape the skin off the bottom of my big toe. This would result in wailing, “Momma I scubbed my toe”. Scub = Scrape + Stub.
The only word that I do recognize is Cattywampus. Crooked. The other words I have never heard of. It was funny just reading all of the words and their meanngs.