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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.
To cheat or swindle someone. Unknown origin, first mentioned in 1829 .
Coffee addicts or stressed personnel in the fast-paced, high-tech field. From “jitter” (unknown origin) +Latin “literati”=well-read.
