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The ordinary-sized words are for everyone, but the big ones are especially for children.



Sunday, 25 September 2011

Sunday Rest: Word Not To Use Today: orotund.

Orotund. Is there a more pompous-sounding word in any language?

It reminds me of chilly churches and tall black cassocks topped with millefeuilles* of chins.

Of lay cheerfulness breaking on the rocks of clerical dignity.

Of, as a very young child, discovering the gorgeous taste of the phrase wicked vicar, and chanting it for ages. Especially when the vicar called.

The poor man couldn't get his cycle clips back on fast enough.

Word Not To Use Today: orotund. This word comes from the Laton phrase ore rotundo, which means with rounded mouth. It means booming or pompous.

* puff pastry stuffed with cream etc. US napoleon.

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