Sunday Rest: Word Not To Use Today: capsule.

So, what would you put in a time capsule?

No, it's all right, don't bother to try to think of an answer. There's no point. Time capsules are always failures, anyway.

Let's face it, the only people who feel the need for a time capsule are those who know they aren't interesting enough to leave a worthwhile trace in any other form.

Would I cross the road to see the contents of a time capsule?

Yes, of course I would: but only out of politeness, and for the exercise.

Capsules, capsules...they're a good things in themselves, of course. They mean you don't have to taste your medicine. They also protect the ends of wine corks, some internal organs, and the crew of aeroplanes in an emergency. Capsules distribute the seeds of violets and poppies, and space capsules are bits of space ships that can go off and do their own thing.

A capsule wardrobe is a small selection of clothes assembled by a smug person, which can be dressed up in a thousand ways.

On the other hand, the capsule of a bacteria is probably the bit that makes you ill.

So, why not use this hugely versatile and important word?

Well, because it sounds way too much like cats' drool.

Obviously.

Word Not To Use Today: capsule. This comes from the Latin capsula, which means little box.