Spot the frippet: wastrel.

It's August, it's the holiday season, and it's probably harder than usual amongst the happy idling crowds to spot a real wastrel.

Oh, but it's a lovely word, and there's surely something irresistibly loveable and all-too-forgiveable about one. A wastrel may be idle and neglectful of his responsibilities, but he is so relaxed about it that we all have trouble avoiding being charmed.

And do I say harden your hearts?

No - but harden your heads, leave your purses in very safe places - and enjoy the company.

Spot the frippet: wastrel. This word is from the Anglo-French waster, from vastāre, to lay waste, from vastus, which means empty.