Language is constantly changing. Words that were once common can disappear from everyday conversations, only to survive in old books and historical records.
Some forgotten words are surprisingly useful, especially when they describe situations that modern English needs several words to explain. Here are five historical words that deserve another chance.
5. Pannychis
Pannychis might not sound like something you’d want to attend, but its meaning is far more enjoyable. The word describes an all night feast or ceremony.
Imagine staying up until sunrise with friends, surrounded by food, music, and celebration. Instead of calling it an all night party, you could simply say, “What a wild pannychis last night!”
4. Lanspresado
A lanspresado is someone who conveniently shows up without any money. The word would certainly come in handy for describing that friend who always seems to forget their wallet.
In an age where almost everyone carries a credit card or phone, there is little excuse for being a lanspresado. It is a wonderfully specific word for an awkward situation.
3. Callipygian
Callipygian is an antiquated, and perhaps more polite, way of saying that someone has an attractive behind. The word comes from Greek roots and has a surprisingly complimentary meaning.
Instead of using more direct language, someone could simply be described as callipygian. It certainly sounds more sophisticated than most modern alternatives.
2. Grufeling
To be grufeling means to wrap yourself up and lie down comfortably. It is the perfect word for those evenings when leaving the sofa feels like an unreasonable amount of effort.
After a long day, you might announce that you’re going to grufel for the rest of the evening. It could easily become a favorite word for anyone who enjoys getting comfortable at home.
1. Fudgel
Few forgotten words are as useful as fudgel. To fudgel means pretending to work without actually accomplishing anything.
The word perfectly describes those moments when someone appears busy at their desk, but somehow manages to get nothing done. For example, “Gilbert spent Friday afternoon fudgeling at his desk while counting down the hours until the weekend.”
With words like these disappearing from everyday speech, modern English may have lost some wonderfully precise and entertaining ways to describe ordinary situations. Perhaps it is time to bring a few of them back.
