WORDS OF THE WEEK II

📘 1. Afterclap

Meaning: A delayed or unexpected consequence following an event; especially something unpleasant after things seem resolved.

Origin: From the combination of after + clap (think thunder or applause). First used in the 16th century.

Use it like this:

The breakup seemed mutual, but the afterclap hit when she saw the pictures online.

Zekie’s tip: Just when you think the drama is over… boom. Afterclap.

📘 2. Harrumph

Meaning: A grumpy or pompous clearing of the throat, often used to express disapproval or annoyance.

Origin: Imitative sound word from the 18th century.

Use it like this:

He harrumphed loudly when they skipped over his idea in the meeting.

Zekie’s tip: Perfect for moody, dramatic scenes.

📘 3. Scrimshank

Meaning: To avoid one’s duties or slack off, especially at work.

Origin: British military slang from early 1900s. The exact roots are unclear, but it screams cheeky laziness!

Use it like this:

You can’t scrimshank your way out of this assignment, go and finish it!

Zekie’s tip: Got a lazy friend? Drop this word and watch their eyes widen.

📘 4. Tagliatelle

Meaning: A type of long, ribbon-like pasta from Italy, similar to fettuccine.

Origin: Italian, from tagliare meaning “to cut.”

Use it like this:

Dinner tonight is creamy garlic tagliatelle with mushrooms and parmesan.

Zekie’s tip: Use this word when you want your meals to sound five-star.

📘 5. Yen

Meaning: A deep desire or craving.

Also, the currency of Japan.

Origin: From Chinese yen (meaning craving), passed into English in the early 20th century via American slang.

Use it like this:

She had a yen for quiet mornings and books with broken spines.

Zekie’s tip: This is a soft, poetic way to say "I crave" without sounding dramatic.

📘 6. Debonair

Meaning: Smooth, stylish, and charming (usually used for men).

Origin: French de bon air – “of good appearance/manners.”

Use it like this:

He was as debonair as a classic movie star in that navy suit.

Zekie’s tip: Use this when describing someone with effortless grace.

📘 7. Gad

Meaning: To wander or travel about for pleasure, often aimlessly. Usually used in phrases like "gadding about."

Origin: From Middle English "gadden", meaning to go or move quickly, dating back to the 15th century.

Use it like this:

She spent her holidays gadding about town like she had no responsibilities.

Zekie’s tip: Use this word when describing a fun, carefree wanderer.