You are currently browsing the tag archive for the ‘Unknown’ tag.
A mole or birthmark, often seen as a small, red patch. Latin “naevus” < Unknown origin.
Of a person, weak, delicate, feeble of timid. Old English “hnesc”=soft and yielding. Further origin unknown.
With hands on the hips and elbows turned outwards. Middle English “in kenebowe”=at a sharp angle. Ultimately uncertain origin.
Severe snowstorm with high winds. C19th word meaning “a hit or sharp blow.” Unknown origin, possible French “blesser”=to wound.
A train spotter or railway enthusiast. Probably a humorous modification of “grouser”=one who shoots (spots) grouse.
Happy, pleased, satisfied. C19th UK dialect < “chuff”=fat, swollen cheeks; used in the sense of “swollen with pride” and pleased. Unknown origin.
Old dance similar to a gavotte; tune in double time of four bars or measures. Origin unknown (but sounds like French “c’est belle”)
UK slang for kissing. From 1940’s, possible from “snug”=lie close in bed. Nautical term “snug” in C16th meant “trim, neat, tidy.”
To talk nonsense or untruths; a wild dance to jazz music. American slang, origin unknown.