Tremellose

Tremellose means shaking like a jelly. Simple when you think about it. Thanks for your invented meanings. They were great. And Magdalene is our lucky winner for the last day of the year. Great work, Magdalene. Keep it up.

Postliminy

Postliminy is a Roman law which allowed a banished person or a captive to regain their privileges once they returned to their own home land. Quite civilised really. Your invented meanings for postliminy were more whimsical and I enjoyed reading them very much. Thanks for being part of this blog. Mandy was today's poll winner. Great work, Mandy.

Corundum

Corundum is a crystallized mineral. Something like sapphires and rubies, apparently, but with a less romantic name. Congratulations to realityjunkie and any other word imps who've added new babies to their families this year. Very exciting and thanks for the news! Keep up the great work. We need more word imps! And congratulations as well to Bea N Random for the great win on the poll today.

Insufflation

Insufflation is simply breathing on or into something. In a slightly more bizarre sense, it can also refer to breathing on someone as part of an exorcism. Great invented meanings, by the way. Today's winner on the poll was suggested by Thinks! Great work, again.

Benthos

Benthos is the collective term for the life forms which thrive on the ocean bottom. But do they know it's Christmas? Thanks for your very funny invented meanings for benthos. I was amused. The pollsters loved Magdalene's invented meaning. Great work, M.

Cordovan

Cordovan is leather from Cordova. Simple really. Your invented meanings were wonderful. Thanks for your contributions. I'm happy to add that Dancerella was well deserved winner today. Great work!

Tenesmus

Tenesmus isn't nice. It's the continual desire to rid the bladder or bowels of their contents, along with the associated painful straining. We could do without that this Christmas. Thanks for your myriad of fascinating entries - and especially to Thinks! who was the runaway winner on the poll. Great work!

Gelid

Gelid meanings icy cold. Now that does actually ring a vague bell. Perhaps I've read it before or heard it somewhere. It's not gelid here in summery New Zealand, although cooler this evening thank goodness. I hope those of you experiencing gelid conditions in the northern hemisphere have a happy time of it. Sonnjea B was the talented winner on today's poll. Great work, Sonnjea.

Quidnunc

I'm a quidnunc. It's a gossip. I try not to be, but I can't help myself. Now I know there's such a fabulous word for it, I may take it up professionally. "Oh, what do you do then?" Me? I'm a quidnunc, of course." Your meanings were wonderful as always. I had a good giggle reading through them after being too busy to come to the blog for a while. So thanks for being here, even when I wasn't! Elisenda was the clever winner on today's poll. Great work and beautiful name too!

Stylobate

A stylobate has nothing to do with style. Well, maybe, if you're an architect it might. Anyway, it's a long basement supporting a row or several rows of columns. I can picture a stylobate but I can't say I've ever heard the term before. Your invented meanings for stylobate were great. The winner with the most votes from his peers was The Encourager. Great work!

Embay

To embay something is to enclose it or shut it in. In particular, though, embay is used to describe the action of moving a ship into a bay. Your meanings were far more interesting, obviously. Stephen received the most votes for his wonderful meaning. Great work, as always, Stephen.

Manumission

Manumission is great. It's the act of setting slaves free. I never knew it was called manumission, but I am a fan of freeing slaves. Your meanings were wonderful and very enjoyable to read on what's been a down day for various reasons. Thanks for the humour. And well done to Silver_flight who reached the top of the poll today.

Rubricate

To rubricate something is to mark it with red. So I guess those teachers who love marking school books with copious red pen marks are rubricating. Who knew? Thanks for your answers. They were wonderful. And I'm pleased to report that Lorenzothellama was chosen as today's poll winner. Great work, Lorenzo.

Loment

A loment is a pod which, when it's mature, breaks into separate parts each containing one seed. Fascinating. I can't give you an example sorry. Perhaps the scientific word imps could enlighten us further. Thanks for your whimsical invented meanings for loment. The poll winners were The Dancer and Stephen. Well done, you two.

Guttler

A guttler is someone who eats like a glutton. Sadly, I have had some guttler moments in my time. The invented meanings were fantastic. I actually found it almost impossible to choose three. The only way I managed to do it was to take away the pressure and think, oh well, it's only a game. After all that, the winner by a nose (or was it a sniff of caffeine?) was Scallywagger. Great work!

Subtrahend

The subtrahend is the thing which is subtracted in a subtraction sum. Simple really. I remember learning maths. I even remember teaching it. But I don't remember coming across the subtrahend. However, memory isn't my strong point, so I figure it must be something I've filed away just a bit too carefully. Your invented meanings were exceptional and the runaway winner on the poll was b.e.mendez. Great work!

Emblement

Emblement describes the profits from sown land. Alternatively it can be used to describe the natural products of soil. Hope that makes things abundantly clear. Your meanings for emblement were great. Thanks for your efforts. And a big congratulations to Aviva who's the winner on today's poll.

Porrect

Porrect is interesting. In terms of an action, to porrect is to stretch out part of the body. Or, it can be to tender or submit a document, presumably from an outstretched hand. Fascinating and very educational. Your meanings of course, were hilarious. Merriam and Sandra Dodd were equally as good, according to voters. Well done, both of you.

Nidificate

As suggested, guessed or channelled by Aviva, to nidificate is to build a nest. Not very many invented meanings to choose from today, but it was a case of lacking in quantity and gaining in quality. I loved the meanings which were presented by a dedicated few and it's clear that most of the voters loved the work of Thinks! who topped the poll with 80 per cent of the votes! Great work, Thinks!

Strigil

A strigil sounds painful and unappealing. It's actually a skin scraper which was used, according to my dictionary, by "ancients at bath". I actually have no idea what that really implies, but it doesn't sound like something I'd like to witness. Your meanings, however, were wonderful. Strigil is a word that evokes and encourages interesting meanings and I'm pleased our word imps came to the party on that one. Sadly, though, I can't put three names on the poll until the poll returns from its break. Vote by other means if you like. There were lots of good ones but I had to make a choice because the poll was kaput. I chose Magdalene. Well done, M. You made me laugh.

Filibeg

Apparently filibeg is the Scottish word for kilt. Correct me if I'm wrong. I always thought kilt was the Scottish word for kilt, but there you go. Your meanings for filibeg were wonderful, even if there were fewer than usual. Perhaps everyone's busy with the festive season. Thanks to Pastor Phil for the clarification on the meaning of filibeg as Gaelic for little kilt. Very helpful. The winner, though, was Mandy, who got the most votes on a poll which was sometimes AWOL. It came back eventually with Mandy as the champ. Great work!

Nugatory

Nugatory is basically a negative word. It can be used to describe events or things that are futile, inoperative or not valid. I hope that will be useful for any of our less optimistic word imps interested in the possibility of vocabulary stretching. I thoroughly enjoyed all the invented meanings and highly recommend those of the winning duo, Aviva and Coolskoolmom. Well done, you two. Great work.

Heddles

Heddles are small cords in a weaving loom. I'm no weaver but, apparently, the warp is passed through the heddles before going through the reed. That's all gobbledygook to me but will probably be transparently obvious to a craft-minded soul. I loved the invented meanings which were, in the main, a lot easier to decipher. Congratulations to "He Might Be Giant" for an intriguing name and a great win on the poll. Drop by again soon.

Canorous

Canorous means melodious. Quite simple really. Your invented meanings were far more complicated, as I like them to be. And congratulations to Chris. Her very funny invented meaning took a well deserved 50 per cent of the votes on the poll. Great stuff.

Novercal

Novercal, oddly enough, means stepmotherly. Not sure when you would use that in a sentence, but I suppose it could appear in a fairy tale or two. Your invented meanings were wonderful, with the poll win going to Brian O Vretanos. Well done, BOV.

Harquebus

A harquebus is a gun. It's an early portable gun which was supported on a kind of tripod. Presumably an improvement on the cannon. Your invented meanings for harquebus were wonderful and two word imps tied for first place on the poll. Congrats to Thinks! and Magdalene for their great meanings.

Fealty

The real meaning for fealty is tricky but I'll give it a go. It's the acknowledgement made by a feudal tenant of fidelity to his lord. I hope that makes sense. If not, check out your own dictionary for further clarification. Something old fashioned anyway. I loved the variety of invented meanings on the blog today. And I always enjoy the meanings which manage to bring in the word imp family in some form or another. The voters agreed, so it's congratulations to Auntibeck for her amusing invented meaning. Great work, Auntibeck.

Logomachy

Logomachy is indeed about words. Several of our word imps took this tack and I enjoyed their invented meanings very much. However, the real meaning of logomachy is a dispute over words or an argument which is based on verbal points. Good to see some new names on the blog today. I hope you join us again soon. Winners on the poll, with a tie for first place, were Thesaurus Rex and Silver_flight. Great work, you two.

Gossoon

A gossoon is a lad, according to my dictionary. Not much more to add except that it's of Anglo-Irish derivation and seems to have some connection with the French garcon. So, my learning continues. Your invented meanings were inventive and lots of fun. Thanks for participating. I always appreciate it, even if I don't say! And congratulations to Loonilidi who beat her rivals on the poll today. Great work LL.

Glandiferous

Glandiferous means bearing acorns. Presumably in the form of a tree rather than a girl carrying them in a basket but you never know, I guess. Anyway, the invented meanings for glandiferous were varied and mind bending. Dancerella sat at the top of the poll with her witty meaning. Well done!

Midden

A midden is some kind of rubbish pile or dunghill, oddly enough. Apparently, it's usually a prehistoric type of rubbish heap full of shells and bones. Charming. Our invented meanings were far more romantic and we have two sharing the winner's podium today. Congratulations to Rhonda and Lorenzothellama!

Peruke

Yes, peruke is another term for wig. Not sure how or why as my dictionary wasn't telling. Our invented meanings were far more on the ball, if you ask me. Lots of variety, too, which is always good. A dedicated word imp, Brian o Vretanos, topped the poll by the tiniest of whiskers today. Great work, Brian.

Viviparous

Viviparous is a zoological term referring to those who give birth to live young as opposed to laying an egg which hatches later. I guess that makes me viviparous. If only I could pronounce it correctly! Your invented meanings were well written and fun to read, with Judi's being the deserved winner on the poll. Great work, Judi.

Murex

A murex is a shellfish. The interesting thing about the murex is its ability to produce purple dye. I like purple, so I'd probably like the murex. Your invented meanings were spot on today. Thanks for the fun. I'm happy to announce that Thinks! was today's poll winner with another great meaning. Well done.

Sistrum

A sistrum is a jingling rattle used by ancient Egyptians. I enjoyed your invented meanings for sistrum and thought they were much better than the true meaning. Raelha's meaning gained favour with the most voters - again! Great work, Raelha.

Teapoy

A teapoy, using my alliterative skills, is a tiny three-legged table for tea. It may also have four legs if preferred. So we were on the right track with our invented meanings. Herdingcats is today's winner on the poll with a very descriptive meaning. Well done!

Popliteal

Popliteal refers to the hollow at the back of the knee. So says my esteemed lexicon. Your invented meanings were well thought out and v. interesting. Thanks for taking the time to play the game. I'm always glad to have your company. The voters liked Raelha's meaning today. Great work, Raelha.

Kraken

Kraken is a mythical sea monster whose mythical home was off the coast of Norway. I haven't heard of him before, but I'll check him out in a Norwegian fairy tale book some time. I'm assuming he's male, of course. Maybe not. The voters loved the meaning suggested by Scriptor Senex today. Great work, SS. Keep it up.

Brachylogy

Brachylogy is conciseness of speech or excessively condensed speech. I'm sorry to say I'm not a brachylogist! I find them sometimes worth of admiration and sometimes frustrating. Thanks for your innovative possibilities for brachylogy. We have two winners - again. This time, it's Sandy Shoes and Thesaurus Rex. Great work, both of you.

Blindage

Blindage is a screen used as fortification by troops in sieges - presumably to keep them out of sight of the enemy. I'm not an expert on war, so I'm just surmising from the vague meaning in my dictionary. I like the sound of the word, though, and I love the invented meanings. There was a tied at the top of the poll today. The winners were Thinks! and Debra Quarles. Well done, you two.

Lixiviate

To lixiviate something is to separate it into soluble and insoluble parts by percolation in water. I never was that great at science, sorry. I know that definition will make a lot of sense to most of you, though. I rather liked the invented meanings today. Good to see some new faces and the return of some familiar ones. And well done to Brian O Vretanos - who is the winner on the poll today. Great work again, Brian.

Scopula

Those whose invented meanings involved magnifying lenses weren't far from the mark in some ways. You'd certainly need a magnifying glass to see scopula. And you'd need a dead bee. Scopulae (yes, that is the plural) are the small brushlike hairs found on a bee's legs. Not sure I've ever looked for them, but someone obviously did. Presumably, a scopula is one such hair. Magnification required to see that would probably be considerable. Look at all the learning we're doing! Chris is to be congratulated for her wonderful meaning for scopula. Thanks, Chris.

Rosolio

Rosolio is a sweet cordial which originated from a plant named sundew which I've never heard of. I'm picking the cordial is probably red but my dictionary was mum on that point. Such a drink would be nice to quaff on a warm Spring day like the one I'm experiencing here in New Zealand. Your invented rosolios were wonderful, as always. Sorry Brian, as a blonde, I couldn't put your meaning on the poll - even though I liked it! The winner, by a long way, was Raelha. Thanks, Raelha. Great work.

Ogham

Ogham (also spelled ogam) is an ancient alphabet that I, for one, have never heard of until now. Apparently it had 20 letters and was used in Britain and Ireland. Not sure how similar it was to our current alphabet. Perhaps the linguists out there can bring us up to speed on that. Thanks to Thinks! for another great invented meaning. You're top of the poll once again. Your dedication to Word Imperfect is appreciated - especially considering you're a cat!

Nagana

Nagana isn't nice. It's a livestock disease transmitted via the tsetse fly. Your invented meanings were great! I was very impressed with them. We had another tie on the poll today. It was between Pastor Phil and The Encourager. How appropriate. I'm sure you'll both be happy to share the honour.

Scug

Oh the poor scug! It's a person lacking spirit, sociabililty, sportsmanship and manners! Come on, scug. Get your act together. I suspect we all know a scug. Some may even be related to one. Nuf said. Well done, Magdalene, for your great meaning for scug. You're today's poll winner.

Bradawl

A bradawl is a small non-spiral boring tool. I can't think of a use for one right now, but leave it with me. I should come up with something over the course of the day. Speaking of the day, you may or may not have noticed that I've changed the time of day that I update this blog. Hopefully this will be more family friendly! I loved your meanings for bradawl by the way. Very innovative. Aviva is today's winner, by the way. Great work, Aviva.

Anosmia

Anosmia is having no sense of smell. Now that could be useful from time to time. My daughter, unfortunately, has the opposite of anosmia. A highly developed sense of smell. Not sure of the word to describe that. Well done for all your meanings for anosmia. They were hilarious. Judi was the winner today. Great work, Judi.

Jequirity

Oddly enough, jequirity is an Indian shrub! Its seeds are used for ornamental and medicinal purposes. We were all well and truly fooled by that one. Loved your meanings as usual. Its amazing how many original meanings we can come up with, each and every day. The power of the human mind and all that, I guess. And one of our clever word imps has won at the poll again today. Congratulations, Brian O Vretanos!

Exuviate

To exuviate is to shed or slough off your skin, shell or other type of covering. A couple of our word imps were very close to the correct meaning - accidentally I'm sure. I found it interesting to read the invented meanings and try to figure out the invented etymology that went along with them. Obviously avoiding housework today! And happy to add that Aviva took the votes with her meaning for exuviate. Thanks, Aviva. Great work.

Pittite

A pittite is someone who sits in a seat located in the pit of a theatre. Obvious, some would say. The blog meanings were a wonderful mix of "of course!" and "fancy that!" today. Well done to everyone who played the game - especially Chris who was top of the poll today. Great work!

Jeremiad

A jeremiad is a lamentation or doleful complaint, named for Jeremiah of Biblical fame. Some of your meanings weren't far off the mark today. I really enjoyed reading them and found each one interesting. Thanks for your dedication to the cause. Realityjunkie took all the sympathy and a lot of the votes today. Congratulations for being the winner on the poll, Realityjunkie. Hope it made up for the jeremiad of a day!

Dandle

To dandle a child is to dance the child around in your arms or on your knee. A great pasttime! Thanks for your invented meanings for dandle. I enjoyed them immensely. Well done to Brian O Vretanos who was the winner on today's poll. Great work as always, Brian.

Fabulist

A fabulist creates fables. Apparently this can be in the literary sense - as in Aesop - as well as being the equivalent of a liar. I think I'd rather be the literary type of fabulist. But there's another interesting fact to tuck away. Thanks for your meanings today. Two word imps tied at the top of the poll. Well done to Thinks! and Scriptor Senex. Keep up the great work.

Welkin

My dictionary tells me that welkin is a poetic word for sky. Poetic? Mmmm. Interesting. I have no more to say on that topic. I liked my own invented meaning much better. However, the winner on the poll was Judi. Great work again, Judi.

Skippet

Okay. Here goes. A skippet is a small container. The container is cylindrical and wooden. It was historically used to protect the seal attached to a ribbon on a deed. Any the wiser? Never mind. Today was another one of those days when each of the three people on the poll received the same number of votes. So it's a hearty congratulations to Magdalene, Brian O Vretanos and Sara. Love your work!

Platinize

To platinize something is to coat it with platinum. Obvious really. However, I do prefer the option of Coolskoolmom's type of platinizing - as did the voters on the poll. Well done, Coolskoolmom. And send your platinizer this way soon!

Huggery

I wish I could say a huggery was something a lot more cuddly than it really is. But I can't. It's really a little boring. It happens when a barrister tries to get a job with an attorney. Something like that anyway. The dictionary meaning was a bit vague. However, the invented meanings were fabulous. I loved them all. And I personally think huggery should get a new meaning. Magdalene's huggery was a big hit with the voters, so that could be it. Well done, Magdalene.

Trecento

The trecento is the correct name for the 14th century in Italian art and literature. At first I found this hard to fathom, thinking that 14 and "tre" didn't seem to work that well together. But then I engaged my brain and realised that the 14th century was really all the dates starting with 13! And, yes Pastor Phil, I did start this blog on Friday 13th. Just to make a point. Back to trecento. Thanks for the meanings added by dedicated word imps. They were very creative. There's something weird going on though. Last time I put a "tri" word on the blog, 3 people tied on the poll. And it's happened again with a "tre" word. So, strangely enough, it's congratulations to Brian O Vretanos, Aviva and Lorenzothellama!

Fraxinella

Fraxinella is a garden herb which, oddly enough, emits a flammable vapour in hot weather! Good grief. As if life wasn't frightening enough. However, I don't have it in my garden as far as I know. I loved the meanings on the blog today. Wonderful! The voting was split evenly between Aviva and Thinks! Great work, both of you.

Thaumaturge

Yes, thaumaturge is a real word. And a good one. It means miracle worker. I had fun reading the meanings from our word imps today and welcome the contributions from several new names on the blog. There was a wide range of suggestions and the winner on the blog came from a newcomer of royal status, named King William. Well done, KW.

Paternoster

Paternoster is mostly in relation to things of the faith. It's apparently another word for The Lord's Prayer. It has other related meanings which you can discover for yourself. However, it's apparently also the word to describe a fishing line with hooks at intervals. Of course the word imps were on fine form with their invented meanings, as is always the case. The pollsters particularly liked the meaning suggested by Holly. Great work, Holly. And lovely name, too.

Kerf

A kerf is the edge left by cutting something with a saw. So, the cut end of a tree which has been felled is called a kerf. Who knew? Hopefully the woodcutter did, but I'm not so sure. However, we had a wonderful range of word imps vying for the leader board again today. Some old names and new ones - which was very exciting. Well done to Coolskoolmom who came away with a win on the poll today. Great work!

Sporangium

A sporangium is a special case for the production of spores. Thank you all for a wonderfully humorous range of meanings for sporangium today. I was very amused by all of today's contributions. Voting was fervent, with a tie between Osobutterfly and Thesaurus Rex. Well done, both of you.

Glyptography

Glyptography is the art of engraving on gem stones. More new information for my tired brain. I can't recall having ever seen an engraved gem stone but there you go. Thanks to the dedicated band of word imps who are keeping things going while some of our number are busy with other duties. I appreciate your commitment. Your meanings were great and the best of all, according to pollsters, was Magdalene. Great work!

Flustra

Flustra is some kind of "sea mat" resembling seaweed, according to my lexicon. Probably that ghastly stuff I accidentally step on while I'm having a summer dip. We only had a small number of word imps participating today but their meanings were great. I hope our other participants come back soon. We miss you! In the meantime, Ju's Little Sister was the winner on the poll. Thanks JLS. I loved your meaning.

Piscivorous

A piscivorous person is a fish eater, of course. Not sure if I would have figured that out without the help of the dictionary though. Herbivorous, carnivorous, omnivorous, piscivorous. I never knew there was a fourth category. Perhaps there are more still... Watch this space. Congratulations to Karishma Hasnat who was a runaway winner on today's poll. Well done, KH. And all the best with the job.

Meniscus

Meniscus is the term for the the curved upper surface of liquid in a container. Fascinating. The invented meanings were also wonderful and I'm pleased to announce The Encourager as today's winner. Well done.

Jactitation

Jactitation seems to have several meanings. One is to falsely claim to be someone's spouse! Another is the restless tossing and turning that occurs with feverish illness. Yet another is limb or muscle twitching. I've had that, but I didn't know it was jactitation at the time. Now I do. And so do you. Thanks for your invented meanings. They all took different winding roads which made for an interesting reading journey. Today's winner on the poll was Edith. Thanks for that Edith. Well done.

Pilgarlic

Pilgarlic actually does have something to do with garlic! It means bald headed and its etymology (according to my dictionary rather than my scholarly background) is related to the similarities between a bald head and peeled garlic! So there you go. I'll try hard to remember that one next time I see a pilgarlic. Thanks for your well written meanings. Very descriptive and interesting indeed. Magdalene was the favoured one among voters today. Great work!

Simoom

A simoom occurs chiefly in the Arabian desert. It's a suffocatingly hot dusty wind which sweeps through a narrow path and is gone within minutes. Makes me glad I'm not a desert dweller. The invented meanings were especially enjoyable and poll voters chose the meaning suggested by Realityjunkie as the best of the best today. Well done, RJ.

Peduncle

Peduncle is, strangely enough, a botanical term. It's the name for the main stalk of a plant. Perhaps I learned that many moons ago but didn't have a reason to remember it. I've got a feeling that I'll forget it again - but never mind. Thanks for your fabulous meanings for peduncle today. I enjoyed them immensely. Voters chose Thesaurus Rex as the winner on the poll. Well done, TR.

Orrery

An orrery is a clockwork model of the planetary system - something we should all have been well aware of. However, I'm happy to admit that it was news to me. Fascinating array of invented meanings today! Thanks for all your contributions. Well done especially to Raelha who's made it to the top of the poll today.

Undine

An undine is a female water sprite who has the chance of receiving a soul if she marries a mortal and bears a child. Another important fact that I've missed over the years. Ho hum. Thanks for your interesting and wide ranging invented meanings for undine. Today's poll winner is Shella. Well done!

Tribology

Tribology is the study of friction, lubrication and wear and tear on machine parts. Well, well, well. Nothing like the meanings invented by the esteemed word imps today, but interesting nevertheless. I think that word could come handy in a pub quiz some day! Oddly enough for a word starting with "tri", all three contestants on the poll gained the same number of votes today. So all three are winners. Congratulations to Sprite, The Encourager and Realityjunkie.

Roucou

Roucou is an orange dye which comes from a West Indian tree of the same name. Our invented meanings are far more fascinating, I'm sure you'll agree. Raelha was the top word imp on our poll today, with a resounding win. Fabulous work, Raelha!

Chad

I heard about chad on the radio the other day. It's the stuff that lots of people, including myself, wrongly call "confetti". Chad is the real name for the stuff which is punched out of a hole punch! I hope I'm not the only one who didn't know that already. Thanks for your invented meanings. They were great. I've added up the votes cast on the blog and through the poll and am happy to announce that Phil was top of the pops today. Well done, Phil.

Eyas

An eyas is, surprisingly, a young hawk which is "in training". I can't be specific on what it's in training for, but I suspect it's something top secret. Anyway, another useful piece of information for those collecting such stuff. Thanks for your interesting meanings for eyas. The poll has finally returned and I'm happy to announce that Edith and Thinks! are equal first. Great work you two.

Opodeldoc

Opodeldoc is nowhere near as interesting as it sounds. My dictionary refers to it as a kind of soap liniment. Not sure if that means a lot to me. There was also mention made of "kinds of medical plaster". So I'll leave it with you to decipher if necessary. Another medical one for the qualified word imps amongst us. Loved your creative meanings today! And very well done to Bee, for a spectacular win on the poll. Keep up the good work.

Equilibrist

An equilibrist is a rope walker. Strange that! Way back when I started this blog in October last year I used a great word - funambulist - which also means rope walker. Just thought I'd share that little piece of trivia with the word imp world. Loved your invented meanings for equilibrist - and particularly enjoyed the meaning suggested by Pastor Phil which was also the winner on the poll. Great work, P.P.

Filaria

Filaria is a parasitic worm! Yukky! It's injected into the bloodstream via certain types of flies and mosquitoes. The blog meanings were far more palatable. Thanks for visiting. Aviva was the poll favourite today. Congratulations on a great meaning, Aviva.

Rhabdomancy

Rhabdomancy is the correct word for water divining using a rod. Fascinating stuff! I hope I wasn't the only one who didn't know that before today. Your invented meanings for rhabdomancy were excellent and I'm pleased to say that Judi was today's winner. Great work, Judi!

Nekton

Nekton is the collective term for free swimming organic life that you would find in oceans and lakes. I'm no scientist, so I'm not sure if I understand what I just typed. Perhaps it will mean something to someone else, though. Nevertheless, a plethora of invented meanings for nekton were suggested. The winner on the poll was Brian O Vretanos. Great work, again, Brian.

Quiff

A quiff is ever so cute. It's a curl lying over a forehead. Just like the nursery rhyme. I'll be looking for opportunities to use that word as soon as possible. The invented meanings were just as wonderful. I found it extremely tricky choosing my top three, though, as each sounded exactly right. The poll voters didn't have any trouble picking a winner, however. It was Realityjunkie. Well done, RJ.

Madrepore

A madrepore is a kind of perforated coral as well as the animal which produces such coral. News to me, but so is most of the stuff I find in the dictionary. My knowledge fits in a box which is much smaller than I'd like to admit. I hope this blog will change that, if only slightly. We had a great turn out of invented meanings today, with a well-deserved win to Herdingcats. Great work!

Scrimshank

To scrimshank is to shirk your duties. Such a person is, of course, a scrimshanker. My dictionary refers to the term as "military slang". Perhaps some of our North American word imps secretly knew that. I'm glad I know this word now. I shall enjoy using it at the earliest possible opportunity. Thanks to Pami Sami for her take on scrimshank. We loved that meaning and it was a clear poll winner today. Great work, PS.

Puttoo

Puttoo is an Indian fabric made from coarse goat's wool. I loved the meanings for puttoo and offer my heartiest congratulations to Thinks! for another fine winning effort.

Vicennial

Vicennial refers to anything which recurs every 20 years or lasts 20 years. Fabulous meanings as always, and apologies again for going AWOL on my dedicated word imps. But I'm back now! Not concentrating well though. I realised, too late, that I hadn't put my three favourites for this one on the poll after all. Late night brain flag, I call it. So, many apologies. In order to avoid a voting backlog, I've decided on a winner myself. Thanks, Brian O Vretanos. I thought your meaning was fabulous.

Doxy

Doxy has two distinct meanings. Firstly, a doxy is a beggar's wench. Who knew? Secondly, a doxy is an opinion on theology. Quite varied meanings, as you can tell, but there you go. The invented meanings were also varied and gave me much cause for hilarity. Thanks for that. The contribution from Wunx~ sneaked through on the poll. Well done, Wunx~.

Buccinator

I'm sorry to report that a buccinator is neither interesting nor funny. According to my dictionary it's a flat, thin cheek muscle. Oh well. It gave us food for thought and plenty of great meanings. Thinks! thought hard and made it to 50 per cent of the vote on the poll - which was enough to be declared today's official winner. Good thinking!

Curare

Curare is a bitter substance from South American plants which Indians used to poison their arrows. Nasty! I'll keep that little tidbit under my hat for now. Not sure if and when it will come in handy. Your invented meanings were strange and wonderful. Magdalene's meaning pipped the others at the post in the winning stakes. Well done, Magdalene. You kept your nose just in front!

Umbles

Umbles is the edible offal of deer and definitely has a connection with the term humble pie. You'll have to look it up yourself for more information on that as the time of night prevents me from going into any further detail. Well done on a fascinating array of invented meanings. Realityjunkie was back with flying colours today and a big win on the poll. Well done, RJ.

Flews

The hanging lips of a bloodhound are known as flews. Another extraordinary fact brought to you by Word Imp. The invented meanings were just as extraordinary and well crafted. Brian O Vretanos had plenty of followers today and his meaning topped the poll. Well done, BOV.

Smallage

Smallage is nowhere near as interesting as it sounds. It's wild celery. The invented meanings were far more out there. I enjoyed reading them very much. It was quite a pick me up after a long day at a squash tournament. Well done, everyone, and especially Pastor Phil who's back from holiday and winning on the poll again. Great work.

Dotard

A dotard is someone in his or her dotage, of course. Now, for those who need more help, your dotage is usually that stage of life when old age and feebleness of mind coincide. I know a few dotards, but I'm too polite to name them. The invented meanings were wonderfully funny, as always. And I'm thrilled to announce that Ju's Little Sister won our hearts and votes with her invented meaning. Great work!

Flivver

A flivver is a cheap motor car. Funny that. Our family has always owned flivvers and never known what to call them. Now we do. It's a slang word of unknown origin according to my dictionary. However, all sorts of other flivvers made it to the blog. Well done everyone - and welcome back, Pastor Phil. Thesaurus Rex took full honours on the poll for this one. Congratulations, again, T.R.

Exsanguinate

To exsanguinate something is to drain it of blood. Charming. There were several word imps who knew this one - obviously ghoulish horror movie fans - but I have to admit it was news to me. I prefer romantic comedies with less blood letting. I thoroughly enjoyed reading today's meanings and am happy to announce that Flamingo was today's poll winner. Congratulations!

Sciagraphy

Sciagraphy is very interesting. It's the action of shading while drawing. It's also x-ray photography. And it's telling the time by looking at the shadows on a sun dial. So, there you go. Fascinating and incredibly informative. If only I could still remember that tomorrow. Ho hum. Well done to Thinks! who was the winner on the poll today.

Geostrophic

Geostrophic means depending on the rotation of the earth. I thoroughly enjoyed the variety of invented meanings on the blog today. Thanks for continuing to visit. I appreciate it very much. The poll voting left Pami Sami as today's winner. Great work, PS!

Repique

A repique is part of a card game called piquet. I think it's when you win 30 points before you've even started playing. Something like that anyway. What a fabulous array of invented meanings! Well done to you all - especially the winner, Raelha. Well done, Raelha.

Habergeon

A habergeon is s sleeveless coat of mail - the mail used in armour rather than the mail which gets delivered by posties. Thanks for your enjoyable meanings. Magdalene was the winner on the day. Great work!

Eldritch

Eldritch, oddly enough, is an adjective meaning weird and hideous. It's derivation is Scottish, if that helps. So, very eldritch - as were some of today's meanings. Thanks for that, I think. The poll winner was Thesaurus Rex. Well done, and well named.

Swimmeret

A swimmeret is the swimming foot found on crustaceans. I'll look forward to my next trip to the beach now, with that little bit of trivia stored away in the appropriate memory bank. I had lots of laughs reading the invented meanings and particularly enjoyed those suggested by joint winners, Brian O Vretanos and Sandy Shoes. Well done, you two.

Tragopan

A tragopan is actually a horned pheasant. So, not too far off some of the invented meanings when you think about it. Thanks for your meanings. Lots of people loved the meaning suggested by Mandy. Well done, Mandy. You're the winner!

Ruckle

There are two kinds of ruckle. One is a crease or a wrinkle and the other is the gurgling sound in the throat of a dying person. Charming. Wouldn't want to get them mixed up. I enjoyed the blog meanings immensely and offer a hearty congratulations to poll winner, Oso Butterfly.

Levirate

A levirate is a custom where a dead man's brother or next of kin was required to marry his widow. Interesting. The invented meanings were also fascinating and two word imps topped the poll. Congratulations to Stephen and Flamingo.

Bunco

To bunco someone is to swindle them - especially via being a card sharp or a confidence trickster! So, watch out. Be careful of the dastardly bunco. The blog meanings were lots of fun too, with the favourite on the poll invented by Father Ann. Congratulations!

Exordium

An exordium is the introduction to a discourse or treatise. Strange that. I would have thought it would have been a better word to describe the middle or end of a discourse or treatise - particularly one which is long and tedious. However, I'm no lexicographer. The three meanings on the poll all received a similar number of votes, but the meaning invented by Chris came out on top. Well done, Chris.

Floruit

A person's floruit is the time they were alive. Apparently, it's a particularly useful word to describe the expanse of time a person was alive if there was no actual record of birth and death dates for that person. Hopefully that's clear. If not, feel free to resort to the invented meanings which were stunning, as always. The top three were very close in the voting and the top two tied. So it's congratulations to Sara and Shari, both winners today. Well done.

Tacamahac

Tacamahac is a bit like it sounds. It's gum resin from certain South American trees and comes from an old Aztec word. Plenty of variety on the blog today, including some fascinating camp reminiscences. Thanks for all your contributions. Raelha drew the most votes today. Congratulations and thanks for another great meaning, Raelha.

Scumble

Scumble is a thin layer of paint placed over a darker colour. It's also the verb to describe the action of painting a thin layer over a darker layer of paint. The artists among us would have known that one, I imagine. Thanks for your very inventive meanings. I enjoyed them immensely. The Mad Fishicist won on the poll today. He's hard to beat, I must admit. Well done, TMF. Glad to have you back.

Mixen

Surprisingly, a mixen is otherwise known as a dung hill. Of course, the invented meanings were far more enlightening and I especially liked the verse from Loonilidi which appeared not to be an entry but, instead, a composition in support of another invented meaning. Thanks for that Loonilidi. Very clever, indeed. The winner on the poll today was Father Ann. Great work and very funny.

Bittock

Well, the real meaning for bittock was much easier than any of us probably imagined. It's a little bit. That will come in very handy when, on the odd occasion, I want only a small amount of something. It will be fun to ask for a bittock, please. I hope you'll find the word equally as useful. The meaning invented by Lorenzothellama was the favourite on the poll today. Great work!

Conventicle

A conventicle is actually a secret religious meeting or, alternatively, a building for holding secret religious meetings. Mmmmm. Very Interesting. I can't think of a time when I'll need to know that, but I'm intrigued nevertheless. Your invented meanings were equally intriguing and Magdalene's was the favourite amongst poll voters. Well done, Magdalene.

Scrod

A scrod is actually a fish, specifically a young cod or haddock. Some of today's invented meanings left me feeling a little squeamish, but I still enjoyed them all. The meaning invented by Maalie was a favourite with the voters. Congratulations, Maalie. Well deserved.

Concettism

Concettism is a flash way of describing the use of fanciful turns of phrase in literature. Not that we ever do that on this blog, of course! The word comes from the Italian language, in case you hadn't noticed. But it featured in my English dictionary so that's good enough for me. The invented meanings were great, with Brian O Vretanos running away with a healthy win on the poll. Great work, Brian.

Discobolus

A discobolus is a statue of an ancient metal quoit thrower. So says my dictionary. I'm assuming the "metal quoit" is the precursor of today's discus. I'm happy to be corrected on that though. Anyway, some interesting invented meanings came out of the woodwork and the winner on the poll was created by Judi - who is always reliably creative! Thanks again Judi - I think! - for painting a rather frightening picture for us all.

Rivage

A rivage is a poetical term for a shore, bank or coastline. I'll remember that next time I'm delving into that particular literary style. For now, though, I'm happy to dwell on the invented meanings which took a wide variety of directions, all clever and innovative. I particularly enjoyed the meaning invented by Bee - and so did the voters. Great work, Bee. I believe you!

Lampion

A lampion is a pot made from coloured glass which contains oil and a wick and is used to provide light. Quite simple really. Some very interesting invented meanings came to light today. Many of us enjoyed the efforts of a newcomer named Hebegb. Congratulations on topping the poll and please visit again, Hebegb.

Solidungular

A solidungular creature is, in fact, a member of the horse family. Solidungular means solid hoofed. Thanks for your creativity on the blog today. Thinks! was the winner on the poll. Good thinking, thinks!

Grimalkin

A grimalkin is actually an old female cat or, alternatively, a spiteful old woman. Useful! Thanks for your fabulous range of invented meanings for grimalkin. My life as a word imperfect judge is difficult, to say the least. Congratulations to Mandy, who was the winner on the poll today. Great work, Mandy.

Estovers

Estovers are necessary supplies allowed for by law. Alimony for a spouse would be considered as estovers. The dictonary explains other examples for those with a need to know. All sorts of interesting invented options appeared on the blog today, with the offering of Oso Butterfly taking a large number of votes to top the poll. Well done, OB.

Scaramouch

A scaramouch is a boastful, bragging type of person. Plenty of fabulous meanings were suggested on the blog, which caused no end of difficulty for me. Three were finally chosen for the poll and the meaning invented by Lorenzothellama was a standout winner. Congrats, Lorenzo!

Radix

A radix is a number or symbol which is the basis of a numeration system. Our decimal system has a radix of 10. Easy! I can remember that. I don't remember learning it in maths though. The meanings invented by silver_flight and duckman both achieved the highest score on the poll. Well done, both of you.

Theorbo

A theorbo is a musical instrument. It's a two necked lute used in the seventeenth century. Some fascinating meanings made it to the blog today. There was a tie at the top of the poll and the joint winners are Aviva and Sandra Dodd. Well done, you two!

Postiche

A postiche is interesting and will be a handy word to have around - if we can remember it when we need it, that is! A postiche is anything which is added after something has supposedly been completed. Apparently, it's a particularly apt word to describe something superfluous which has been tacked on to the end of a sculpture or piece of architecture. Alternatively, it's a synonym for artificial or counterfeit. So, quite fascinating and useful at the same time. The meaning invented by Chris was great and the voters agreed, making it the winner. Well done, Chris.

Quantivalence

Quantivalence is indeed a chemistry term. It's the extent to which an atom can hold other atoms in combination. I was never a chemistry star, so please forgive me if that doesn't make a lot of sense. Some fabulous invented meanings made it to the blog and Judi's was certainly one of them. I'm sure many of us have experienced her version of quantivalence. I know I have! Thanks, Judi. You're today's winner on the poll.

Orogenesis

Orogenesis is quite important. It's the process by which mountains are made. Presumably out of mole hills. Could be a useful word in an argument. Lots of word imps joined in with their invented meanings, but the winner on the poll - and one that impressed me a lot - was written by Stephen. Great work, Stephen.

Morganatic

Morganatic actually described a type of marriage. It was the kind where the man was of higher rank than the woman (whatever that means), and where the woman didn't rise to the rank of her husband as a result of the union. Therefore, the children couldn't claim the possessions or title of their father. Odd. Obviously something from days gone by. I hope that means something to someone. Raelha's invented meaning was enjoyed by many and she is the official winner for the day. Congratulations, Raelha!

Fenks

Fenks are the fibrous parts of whale blubber or, alternatively, the remaining substance after whale blubber has been melted. I think I need a lie down after that one. Fortunately, I've got the invented meanings to fall back on. Thanks for the vast array. Sometimes, simple is best. That's often true for Coolskoolmom and was definitely true of her wonderful meaning for fenks. Thanks, Coolskoolmom. I think most of us related all to easily to your definition.

Moquette

Moquette is a material used for making carpets and upholstery. It's a mixture of wool and hemp or linen, according to my faithful dictionary. The invented meanings, of course, showed far more originality, with Duckman being the favoured one today. Well done, Duckman.

Gimcrack

A gimcrack is a useless ornament. And, might I add, one that increases its uselessness by gathering unsightly dust. Nevertheless, several gimcracks seem to gather dust on our shelves. This word certainly sparked the imaginations of a wide range of word imps today. Of course, that made the choosing that much harder. Voting on the poll was tight but I was pleased that Gypsy Queen came out on top because her meaning was a great one. Congratulations, Gypsy Queen.

Sciolist

A sciolist is someone who pretends to speak intelligently about a topic which they actually know very little about. My husband can be quite the sciolist when the mood takes him. His specialty is false botanical plant names. You have my permission to be a sciolist when the need arises. It's fun. Our top three sciolists on the poll all got the same number of votes so they're all winners. So, well done to Brian O Vretanos, Alina Escalante and Maalie.

Struthious

Struthious means like an ostrich. I will enjoy using that word in context and surprising my friends with the depth of my vocabulary. I enjoyed the blog meanings very much, and am pleased to announce Aviva as the winner on the poll. Well done and welcome back, Aviva.

Scissel

Scissel is the correct term for metal shavings or any excess metal waste such as the remainder of a metal plate after coins have been punched from it. Those of you who have occasion to be around fragments of metal will now have just the right word for the stuff. Happy to have been of assistance on that one. It turned out that the voters favoured two meanings equally today. So Wunx~ and Silver_flight are joint winners. Congratulations, you two.

Pergunnah

A pergunnah is a division of territory in India. A bit like a state or region maybe, only a bit smaller I think. Perhaps one of our Indian word imps can throw some light on that one in due course. One blog comment may have been questioning the fairness of my use of an Indian word. In reply, I would say that I only use words which are in my English dictionary and sometimes they happen to be words from other countries. Congratulations to Duckman who achieved the highest number of votes on the poll.

Duumvir

A duumvir is a member of a board which contains two officials of equal standing. Well, that's my interpretation of the dictionary meaning anyway. I believed it's from the Latin. The wonderful invented meanings made my decision particularly difficult today, but Raelha was the final winner on the poll. Great work, Raelha.

Wampee

A wampee is a tree which grows in China and yields grape-like fruit, also called wampee of course - or so says my dictionary. I've never seen or eaten a wampee to the best of my knowledge. Nor been to China. Thanks for your inventive meanings today. The Mad Fishicist was too hard to beat this time. Thanks for that, TMF.

Minacious

Minacious means threatening. Mmmm. I will try to keep that in mind. It could be useful. The blog meanings were not at all threatening and I've placed three on the poll. It was very hard to choose, as each had its merits. So well done to you all. Shari got the most voters, which makes her another happy customer. Good for you, Shari!

Ginglymus

A ginglymus is a joint in the body such as the elbow which works like a hinge and has motion in two directions. There you go! Another useful fact! Who said learning can't be fun? No doubt the medicos out there in word imperia were chuckling to themselves about knowing that one. There was plenty of fun on the blog with ginglymus. The invented meaning of Thinks! found favour with the voters. Well done, Thinks!

Caudle

Mmmm. Caudle sounds rather delicious. It's a warm gruel which includes spice, sugar and wine which is given to invalids and new mothers. Sounds great. Your invented meanings for caudle were just as delightful. The voters agreed that the meaning created by aandthirtyeights was a stand out. I agree. Well done!

Thanatoid

Thanatoid actually describes something deadly, deathlike or apparently dead. Appropriate, coincidentally, with today being the release day for J K Rowling's latest book. I haven't bought mine yet. I put three meanings on the blog and each of them gaining a third of the votes - which means we have a three way tie! Congratulations to J Morgetron, Duckman and Bee. You all deserve it. Great work.

Pyaemia

Pyaemia is not for the squeamish. It's blood poisoning caused by pus-forming bacteria. I'm sorry I had to go into so much detail. Let's move on, shall we? So, pyaemia didn't have very much to do with pies - although plenty of the invented meanings did. Heaps of fun had by all on the blog as usual. Bea N. Random invented a great meaning and it was good enough to win today. Congrats!

Naiad

A naiad is a water nymph. I had a lot of fun reading today's invented meanings - as I always do. It's one of the day's highlights and keeps me going through thick and thin. Judi's was a runaway winner - and one that I particularly enjoyed as well. Thanks for making us happy Judi.

Teknonymy

Teknonymy is the practice of renaming a parent after a child. I'm indebted to silver_flight for the following information found on wikipedia about teknonymy in Korea: Teknonymy, or referring to parents by their children's names, is a common practice. It is most commonly used in referring to a mother by the name of her eldest son, as in "Cheol-su's mom". However, they can also be extended to either parent and any child, depending upon the context. It looks as though this technique is used in order to help avoid the use of the person's actual given name, which in Korean society is apparently a taboo. Now, we're all just that bit wiser. In terms of invented meanings, the race to the winning post was very tight. In fact, there was a dead heat for first. Pastor Phil and Thinks! share the honours today. Well done, you two!

Velleity

Velleity is a low degree of volition which doesn't prompt any action. I think I kind of understand that. It was suggested by one of our word imps. Thanks for that, Wunx~. Some interesting meanings made it to the blog again today. Raelha was the winner, in a close race. Well done, Raelha.

Cloop

Cloop is the sound of a cork being drawn. Well, of course! Who didn't know that? Me, for one. But now you tell me, it is rather obvious. Interesting array of meanings on the blog today. After much fun and games with the voting process, I can announce that the favourite was the invention of Brian O Vretanos. Well done, Brian.

Punctum

A punctum is a small speck, spot, which is flat, indented or raised on a surface. I know someone with a punctum in the middle of their dishwasher door. I shall refer to it by its proper name in future. I loved the meanings for punctum from the word imps today. Very innovative and impressive. The Mad Fishicist was the final winner on the poll, after some trouble actually retrieving the poll. Perhaps his meaning sent the poll AWOL. But it's back and that's what matters most. Yay!

Hoosegow

Hoosegow is a term used in the old American west to describe a jail. Apparently, it came from a Spanish word, 'juzgado'. Thanks to Raelha for the suggestion for this word which gave us all a lot of fun on the blog today. Auntibeck pleased the voters with her meaning. Well done, Auntibeck. Tops again.

Muniment

A muniment is an archival document kept as a record of proof in relation to rights and privileges. Something old and dusty by the sound of it. Great meanings on the blog, with the winning meaning suggested by Ingrid. Well done, Ingrid.

Couvade

A couvade is something you may need to know, so listen carefully. I shall say this only once. A couvade (koo-vahd) is a primitive custom. It occurs if a wife is having a well earned lie in. The husband in such circumstances can stage a couvade by pretending to be so ill that he needs to be put to bed beside his wife. One of our word imps has also informed me that the word also has connotations of being connected with childbirth, with the husband taking to the birthing bed to share the pain. I think I got that right. Anyway, the winning invented meaning today was suggested by Raelha. Thanks for your creativity, Raelha and congratulations on a well-deserved win.

Vambrace

Sometimes a word lends itself particularly well to invented meanings. Vambrace is one of those wonderful words. And the word imps did not let me down. I giggled my way through a particularly busy and frustrating day, so thanks for that. The real meaning of vambrace is useful but pretty ordinary, I'm sorry to say. It's armour for the forearm. Realityjunkie won the battle of the pollsters with her wonderful meaning. Great work again, RJ.

Mutograph

A mutograph was an early form of motion picture camera. The word imps had a lot of fun making up meanings for mutograph. Great work everyone. The voters chose the work of Alex Beech as winner today. Congratulations, Alex and thanks for the clarification of your great definition.

Timocracy

Timocracy is a form of government where you need to have a certain amount of property to qualify for office. Hmmmm. The invented meanings for timocracy were at least as dubious and all interesting. The favourite by far was brought to us by Bea N. Random. Congratulations for creating a great meaning.

Bedlamite

A bedlamite is a lunatic. Another amazing fact for me to tuck away into my overworked memory banks. The invented meanings were far from lunatic, in the main, and the best one was suggested by Thinks! Obviously a well named blogger.

Rotifer

A rotifer is a microscopic water animal with rotary organs used for swimming. Fascinating. The word rotifer offered plenty of opportunity for a wide range of inventiveness among our merry band of wordsters. Magdalene was a popular winner on the poll. Excellent work, Magdalene.

Lentitude

Lentitude is sluggishness - something I'm feeling at the moment after a long drive south to my home. I thoroughly enjoyed the invented meanings - a great tonic for a weary mind. Yaamyn was a well deserved winner on the poll. Great work, Yaamyn.

Tintinnabulate

To tintinnabulate is to ring a bell, as many of you would have been aware. However, it's a beautiful word that I'm sure could do with more extensive use. So, dear word imps, go forth and tintinnabulate. Your invented meanings showed a degree of inventiveness for which I was particularly proud today. Vicki B was the winner in a close race on the poll. Well done, Vicki.

Musette

A musette is a small bagpipe. I saw one at the Auckland Museum on Tuesday night when we took the children to Egyptian night at the Museum. The musette isn't Egyptian, I don't think, but we were waiting for some time before the start of the performance and spent our waiting moments reading about all the different kinds of instruments on show. The musette was one of them. I don't remember it looking anything like a bagpipe but, then again, I had to look at it by the light of a torch. Thanks for adding your meanings for musette. I liked the meaning invented by silver_flight and so did lots of you, as it was the winner on the poll. Well done, s_f.

Jargonelle

A jargonelle is yummy. It's an early ripening pear. What a large number of interesting entries this time. I'm impressed. I thought it might be a bit of a limiting word but not to the word imps of blogothea! Yaamyn and Dina Baxter tied as winners on today's shorter than usual poll. Well done both of you.

Crankle

Crankle is a verb which means to bend and twist. Lots of interesting meanings from the word imps out there in blogland. Thanks for your dedication, as always. Realityjunkie was the winner on the poll. Well done, RJ.

Eudiometer

A eudiometer is used in chemical experiments. Apparently, it's a graduated glass tube which somehow causes an electric spark in its metallic terminals. Something to do with combining gases. I know that's hopeless, but so is my understanding of chemistry. The blogging chemists out there are welcome to provide a clearer description of the word than that. However, I think I'll stick with the invented meanings which were, in the main, much easier to understand. Stephen's invented meaning was a big favourite on the poll. Congrats, Stephen.

Aboulia

Aboulia is loss of willpower. You'd think I would have heard of that at some stage in my life, but I can't say it rings a bell. However, loss of willpower is something I'm familiar with, for sure. The invented meanings were wonderful as always. I'm happy to report that the winning invented meaning on the poll came from Wunx~. Welcome to the game and well done!

Incubus

I might have bitten off more than was chewable with today's word. I had no idea of the implications of choosing the word "incubus". I'd never heard of it before and my dictionary didn't mention the specific details which I've just discovered on dictionary.com thanks to the heads up from Pastor Phil. I didn't know anything about it also being the name of a band - but then I'm not up with the play as far as music goes. So, apologies for any offence caused to anyone. Let's just say the simplest dictionary meaning for incubus is that it's an evil spirit believed to descend on sleepers. It can also be used to describe an oppressive nightmare or an oppressive burden or person. Enough said. The invented meanings were great. Alex Beech took the cake and most of the votes with her cuddly invented meaning. Well done, Alex.

Feretory

A feretory is a shrine for the relics of a saint or the chapel in which shrines were kept. No ferrets at all, strangely enough. Lots of fun had by all on the blog today, though. And I'm proud to say that I have even used the real meaning of feretory in a conversation today! The best invented meaning according to the poll was a runaway winner. Well done, Auntibeck! We're impressed.

Moxa

Moxa is fascinating. It's anything used as a counter-irritant for gout. Specific remedies are mentioned in my dictionary but I'll leave that up to any potential gout sufferers to follow up. I have other, more pressing issues to address. As does Raelha, who needs to celebrate her win on the poll today. Well done, Raelha.

Holothurian

Oddly enough, holothurian describes animals of the sea slug type. Not something I would ever have guessed, but there you go. The invented blog meanings took a different tack completely, as is usually the case, and provided me with some happy moments. The favourite among pollsters was written by Brian O Vretanos. Congratulations BOV.

Crambo

Crambo is a word game. It's different to our word imperfect game though. Here's how to play. One player says a word. Each of the other players must find a rhyme for that word. There seem to be some other versions which could be more interesting but I'll leave you to follow that up in your own time. Sandra Dodd's definition made it to the top of the poll today, followed closely by her rivals. Well done, Sandra.

Tortile

Tortile means twisted, curved or coiled. I probably could have figured that out if I'd thought about it hard enough. But I'd rather read the hilarious invented meanings on the blog instead. Aviva's meaning was a runaway winner on the poll. Well done, again Aviva.

Limbate

Limbate is a botanical or biological term which describes something with a distinct border. I've seen leaves like that. Now I'll be able to describe them correctly and wow my friends on garden rambles... Anyway, back to reality. Thanks for a wide variety of interesting meanings for limbate. I just thought of another one - someone who can't think of the last line for a limerick! However, it's too late. The winner's been chosen and it's Bee. Thanks for your wonderful invented meaning, Bee.

Squacco

A squacco is a small, crested heron. Perhaps some of you knew that but were humouring me for the purposes of the word game. Thanks for that. The meanings were squishy and squeamish but lots of fun. Ingrid got the most votes on the poll, which makes her a very happy winner indeed. Well done, Ingrid!

Abbacy

An abbacy is the office of an abbot. Today's range of ideas was impressive. Thanks again for visiting and being part of the game. Aviva won a close battle on the poll. Well done, Aviva.

Tierce

A tierce is a third of a pipe and was used as an old wine measure. Interestingly, it's also a sequence of three cards and the third position in fencing as well as a few other obscure things to do with the number three. Lots of great invented meanings made their way to the blog again today, with the winner entry written by Elle4loser. Well done to you.

Wivern

Yes, a wivern (also spelled wyvern) is a winged, two legged dragon with a barbed tail. The invented meanings were wonderful again. I was amazed at the huge variety and had lots of fun reading them. Well done to Somegirl for a great meaning and a well deserved win on the poll today!

Pilose

Pilose means covered with hair. I feel like I should have known that but, sadly, I didn't. Maybe I'll remember it now but I'm not making any promises. My memory isn't what it used to be. I hope some of the word imps out there are gaining a fabulous vocabulary through this game though! Voting on the poll was very tight between Stephen and Melissa today - so tight in fact that I've declared them both winners. Wonderful meanings, both of you. Thanks for your creativity.

Splenius

The splenius is actually a neck muscle which is used to pull back the head. Fancy that! Once again, the invented meanings were lots of fun to read. The winner on the poll came from Brian O Vretanos. Thanks, Brian. Great work.

Kymograph

A kymograph is an instrument, as many of you figured out. It's used to record variations in pressure, with sound waves being the example given in my dictionary. Lots of fun was had by all with today's meanings and the winning entry on the poll was supplied by J Morgetron. Congratulations and thanks to everyone for dropping by.

Jobation

A jobation is a lengthy reprimand. I have a tendency to enter a period of jobation every now and again with my children. However, they soon let me know when I've made my point and the jobation is complete. Now I know what to call it. Cool! Loved the meanings on the blog today. And great to see we're still getting new players as a result of the blog of note status which is over a week old. Williminator took the honours with today's invented meanings in a very tight race. Congratulations.

Nonage

Nonage actually describes being under age, a minor or immature. Quite the opposite of some of today's invented meanings. But that's a good thing in my book. I always enjoying perusing the "funnies" I've spawned through this word game. Thanks for the giggles as always. And well done to Irene Grumman, winner on the poll today.

Mattoid

A mattoid is a thoroughly fascinating creature. It's a person who swings erratically between genius and fool. I like that. And I loved the array of meanings added by generous word imps who visited the blog today. Thanks again for coming back. You are very kind. And congratulations to Karoline whose meaning gained the most votes on the poll today.

Horopter

The actual meaning of horopter is actually something that my brain can't fathom. So I'll have to just leave it with you and see if you can make sense of it. Apparently, it's the aggregate of points which are seen singly by the eyes in any given position. Sorry I can't make that any clearer. Science wasn't my strong point. Fortunately, the invented meanings were much easier to figure out. Shari's was one that took my fancy and it went down well with the voters as well. Great work, Shari.

Asperity

Asperity seems quite a flexible word. It means roughness, harshness, severity of weather and sharpness of temper. The blog meanings, as always, held my interest all day. Winner on the poll was Orange Strings. Great work, OS.

Bleb

A bleb is actually a small blister or bubble found on skin, water or glass. I've seen those blebs in glass before. Now I know what they're called. Once again a wonderful array of invented meanings have made it to the blog today. Winners on the poll, with exactly the same number of votes, were Pirate Jim and Fz. Both well deserved!

Quaquaversal

Quaquaversal means pointing in every direction. It's a word I can't imagine using very often in that context. However, some of the invented meanings could be very useful. Thanks for all your imaginative writings, fellow word imps. Your expertise makes it very hard to choose three for the poll. Elle4loser gained the most votes today. Congrats.

Orlop

The orlop is the lowest deck on a ship which has three or more decks. It's certainly tough choosing only three invented meanings for the poll when there are over 50 to choose from! I thoroughly enjoyed reading through the list and was amazed at the ingenuity of the blogging world. Congratulations to Mandy for the winning meaning on the poll today.

Francolin

A francolin is actually a bird. It's a type of partridge which looks like a pheasant. What a fabulous array of invented meanings on the blog today! Thanks so much to everyone who has found this site via Blogs of Note. A big welcome to you all. Hopefully many of you will enjoy playing and visit again soon. And congratulations to Scallywagger, who was the very clear winner on the voting poll today.

Reliquary

A reliquary is a receptacle for relics. Many of today's invented meanings were close to the real meaning - which I suspected might happen. Nevertheless, there was still a good range of meanings which had nothing to do with relics at all. I enjoyed each of the meanings and was very happy to see that a few new people have been joining the game. Welcome to you all. I hope you keep coming back. The Mad Fishicist received lots of votes on the poll today, thanks to the new "Blog of Note" status. Well done, TMF!

Graminaceous

Graminaceous is nowhere near as interesting as it sounds, sadly. It means grassy or like grass. I'm sure it's one of those words we'll all be able to drag into conversation some day soon. Interesting indeed were the invented meanings from a plethora of word imps today. Great work everyone. I'm impressed. Pirate Jim was the runaway winner in the voting on the poll. Great work, PJ. I hope you join us again soon.

Bricole

A bricole is actually a sporting term. It's a shot in billiards where the ball rebounds off the cushion and has a similar meaning in tennis. It's also an ancient military catapult. Fascinating, but I have to say the invented meanings are even more interesting - and we all loved the meaning created by Judi, today's winner on the poll. Well done Judi.

Chitterling

Chitterlings are the small intestines of animals which are cooked as food. So Judi's meaning was very close to reality. Lots of creativity went into today's efforts. Congratulations to everyone. The favourite on the poll was written by Auntibeck. Great work.

Lipography

Lipography is the omission of letters or words in writing. I'm plagued with it. Thanks for your great meanings. I loved them all and, like the voters, enjoyed Judi's meaning very much. Well done, Judi. You're today's winner on the poll.

Glabrous

Glabrous describes skin that is hairless. So, next time I see a man with a bald head, I'll be able to tell the man how glabrous he's looking today. He probably won't know what I'm talking about, but what the heck! The crowd chose the meaning invented by Lady Macleod today. Well done!

Porrigo

Porrigo isn't nice. It's a scaly eruption of the scalp. Best left there, I think. Fortunately, some great meanings erupted on the blog for porrigo, with Clare taking the prize this week - if there was one that is! Well done, Clare. Love your invented meanings.

Nuphar

A nuphar is a yellow water lily. Who knew? The invented meanings covered a wide range of topics today. Great work, everyone. Voters chose the work of The Mad Fishicist. Always entertaining! Thanks again, TMF.

Killick

A killick is a small anchor or a heavy stone used as an anchor. Great meanings again today. Thanks to all my regular word imps for your continued dedication. I appreciate it immensely. The winner on the poll was Realityjunkie. Well done, RJ.

Susurration

Susurration is actually a synonym for whispering or rustling which is spookily close the meaning suggested by Floribunda. Lots of interesting invented meanings to choose from today. There was a tie on the poll and I couldn't choose between the two, so I've declared both Madame C and Vicki B winners for the day. Well done, both of you.

Grackle

A grackle is actually a bird - apparently like the jackdaw. I loved today's blog meanings so much that I couldn't decide between them. However, the voters did. They chose Sara's meaning. Well done, Sara!

Posology

Posology is interesting. It's the study of the quantities by which drugs should be administered. (Emphasis on the word "should".) I guess anyone trained in pharmaceutical matters would have felt particularly virtuous with that one. However, as usual, the invented meanings were just as fascinating as the real meaning. Voters chose George's meaning as the winner this time. Well done, George.

Syrinx

Syrinx has a plethora of meanings. You can take your pick - a panpipe, a narrow gallery in an Egyptian tomb, the tube from the throat to the ear drum or the song organ of a bird to name a few. I guess they're all related in some way. However, the invented meanings were actually a lot more interesting - especially that suggested by The Good Woman which won the vote on the poll today. Congratulations!

Lordosis

Lordosis is forward curvature of the spine. Fortunately, it's not something I'm acquainted with at this stage. I enjoyed the invented meanings very much. Well done to everyone who had a go - and congratulations to the winner on the poll, Sonnjea B.

Roborant

Roborant actually means strengthening, in the pharmaceutical sense I believe. Thanks for your inventive meanings while I was away in Wellington. Life is now officially back to normal and, although my joke book wasn't a winner in any of the official categories, it did well in the children's choice voting. It received more children's votes than any other finalist in the non-fiction section - and I can't complain about that. Hopefully it will translate into sales! And speaking of getting votes, Realityjunkie received the most votes on today's poll. Congrats RJ.

Ringent

Ringent actually means gaping - like my mouth when I saw that more than the usual four or five word imps had visited and added their meanings today. There were some valiant efforts, with The Mad Fishicist drawing the most votes on the poll. I liked it too. Well done.

Tegument

Tegument describes the natural covering - fur, feathers, scales etc - of an animal's body. I guess the zoologists amongst us would have been sitting pretty with that one. However, it's all new to me - as are most of the words I find for this blog. Great invented meanings as always. Realityjunkie took the cake and the poll with her meaning. Thanks for that. Well done.

Edacious

Edacious means greedy. In fact, Mommanator got the meaning pretty much exactly right. Not sure if it was just a fluke or not! The funniest on the poll was supplied by The Mad Fishicist. Well done to you TMF. I do enjoy your invented meanings. Keep visiting please.

Gnathic

Gnathic means "of jaws". Hope that helps. Your invented meanings were great - and a lot more interesting than "of jaws". I liked them all. The favourite with the voters was the invented definition of Auntibeck. Well, done!

Fougasse

A fougasse is actually a small mine, sunk into the ground and full of stones, bits of iron, etc which is fired by gunpowder and ready to strike the enemy when least expected. So, our word imps were pretty close actually. Well done while I was away touring and taking joke writing workshops. I'm back to the grindstone at home now - happy to announce that Tallgirl's the winner of today's poll. Well done, Tallgirl.

Pantagruelism

Pantagruelism is extravagant coarse humour named after someone named Pantagruel. I really liked the inventiveness of the meanings on the blog today. Thanks for your dedication. Sonnjea B takes the honours on the poll again. You're a machine, Sonnjea.

Galloon

A galloon is actually quite boring. It's cross-woven braid used for binding dresses. I guess the tailors and seamsters among us will understand that. However, fortunately for us, there are invented meanings for galloon and they're all much more interesting than the real meaning - especially that written by our word imp Sonnjea B. Well done, Sonnjea. You're the winner on the poll today.

Fubsy

Fubsy means fat. Fortunately, I'm not feeling fubsy at the moment - due to my exercise and eating plan which is working well. However, if I was feeling fat, I wouldn't mind so much if I was described as fubsy. Loved today's invented meanings - especially the one from Beautiful Lady which described a fubsy as a furby gone bad. I don't think we'll ever forget that wonderful meaning. Well done, Beautiful Lady - brains and beauty!

Pediculous

I'm sorry to have to report that pediculous means infested with lice. Not a pretty thought I know. And it's not even about feet after all - although I guess it could be in certain situations. I hope that's not too much of a disappointment to the bloggers today. The meanings were wonderful, as usual. I'm not sure how you all manage to come up with so many great meanings so often. I'm very proud of you all. And I did love Shari's meaning, which is the winner on the poll today. Well done, Shari.

Sinciput

Well, who would have known? We all have a sinciput. Well, that's unless you've had pretty major surgery. Your sinciput, dear friends, is the part of your head from the forehead to the tippy top. I can't give any particulars about the derivation - but I hope you'll find this word an unusual and exciting one to drop into conversation when things need a bit of livening up. Kathy's invented meaning won on the poll. Well done, Kathy.

Lycanthropy

Lycanthropy is when a witch transforms into a wolf or - just to keep you on your toes - it's also a mental affliction whereby the patient thinks he or she is a beast and exhibits the characteristics of that beast. Grrrrr. Best stop there, I think. Great meanings on the blog for lycanthropy. The winner was Sonnjea B. Great work once again, Sonnjea.

Razzia

A razzia is actually a slave collecting expedition which, admittedly, is a pretty good meaning. However, I thought the invented meanings on the poll were outstanding today. Most outstanding of all, according to the voters, was the meaning from 3 Elements. Great work!

Chittack

A chittack is an Indian weight equalling an ounce. Thanks for your meanings on the blog today. I enjoyed them. The winner on the poll was invented by Eve's Lungs. Well done!

Saxatile

If something is saxatile, it's living among rocks - a snippet of information I may well have a use for on my next trip to the beach. Thanks for invented meanings. It's a slow time for blogging over the weekend so I left it on a bit longer. Sonnjea B's invented meaning found favour with the judges. Well done, Sonnjea.

Horripilation

Many of the word imps were a lot closer to the real meaning for horripilation than they probably imagined. Horripilation is the correct term for what's commonly known as goose bumps. I loved the meanings and found it tricky only choosing three. However, I did, and the winner on the poll was Floribunda, again! Keep up the creative work, Floribunda.

Nyctalopia

Nyctalopia, as Shari pointed out, is night-blindness. My dictionary, oddly enough, also describes it as "the inability to see clearly, except at night". That seems like the opposite to me, but who knows. Some effort obviously went into today's blog meanings. Well done, word imps. Floribunda's meaning took the voters' fancy and is pronounced winner on the day. Great work, Floribunda.

Nutation

Nutation is what a spinning top does as it oscillates. It's also the curve in the stem of a growing plant. And it's nodding. So, lots of choices there. But none as interesting as the invented ones. Gergory's was the winner on the poll. Thanks for that, Gregory.

Spiracle

A spiracle is a zoological term. It's a whale's blow hole. And it's the outer orifice of an insect's trachea. Scarey, I agree. So I'm moving quickly to the invented meanings which are delightful. Thanks for your inventiveness. Well done to Sophie 9, the winner on the poll.

Pettifogger

A pettifogger is a rascally attorney with inferior legal abilities. So, quite a handy word for us word imps to add to our arsenal. For once, the real meaning stands up to scrutiny. The pollsters, however, have chosen Shari's meaning as their favourite. Well done, Shari.

Lawrencium

Lawrencium is a man-made radioactive element. It's named after someone, just not Lawrence of Arabia. The famous Lawrence in question was actually E.O. Lawrence, an American physicist. I think the invented meanings, as usual, suit the word much better of course. Amalia's meaning is the favourite among pollsters. Well done and welcome back, Amalia. Good to see you again.

Catachresis

Catachresis is what we do! It's improper use of words. Go, catachresis. It's one of my favourite things and I didn't even realise it. Anyway, the catachresis for catachresis was great, as usual. Thanks for your efforts. Realityjunkie takes top place on the poll today. Congrats, RJ.

Pelf

Pelf is money. I never knew that. Perhaps people who have more money than me know more words to describe their wealth. However, now I know. And so do you. Thanks for the blog meanings today. The winner on the blog was The Mad Fishicist. Clever man, TMF!

Ballonet

A ballonet is the air compartment in a balloon or airship. Not nearly as interesting as some of the meanings on the blog for this word. Thanks for your contributions over Easter. Back to a word a day again now - and congrats to Albow for the winning meaning on the poll.

Pellagra

Pellagra is a disease which starts with cracked skin and ends with insanity. So get that moisturiser out, people! Sadly, I do have cracked heels. However, my insanity is completely unrelated. Thanks for your wide ranging meanings on the blog. Wonderful! Ron was the favourite on the poll. Congratulations on your success, Ron.

Dolose

Dolose describes a person with criminal intent. Mmmmm. I'm sure none of the word imps could be described as dolose. Especially not Sonnjea B, who's the winner on the poll for this word. Congrats, Sonnjea.

Palafitte

A palafitte isn't quite as palatial as I had imagined. It's actually the name for a prehistoric hut on piles over a Swiss or Italian lake. Well, if you have to live in a prehistoric hut, I guess that's the spot. Give me a palafitte over suburbia any day. However, I digress... I genuinely loved all the invented meanings on the blog today. Thanks for such superb work, word imps. I'm very happy to say that my favourite invented meaning, the one written by Madame C, was the winner with the voters as well. Good work, Madame C. You had some strong competition.

Toccata

A toccata is described in my dictionary as a rapid, brilliant composition for piano or organ. So not a tasty morsel after all. Anyway, the word imps have done their bit as usual and the voters have had their say. The winner is Realityjunkie. Great work, RJ.

Darg

A darg is a day's work. The meanings on the blog showed a good variety of inventiveness and the winner on the day was Sonnjea B. Congratulations and welcome back, Sonnjea.

Rocambole

A rocambole is actually a type of leek used for seasoning. I guess avid gardeners may have known that one. But me? No on both counts. The blog meanings took several interesting turns and the voters chose Clare once again. Too good, Clare.

Kilderkin

A kilderkin is a cask for liquids measuring 16 or 18 gallons. Not sure why the discrepancy there but that's what my dictionary says. So Clare was on the right track with her interesting measurements. She was also the pick on the poll. Congrats, Clare.

Rouncival

A rouncival is a large variety of pea. I've never been a fan of peas, so I don't think I'll be trying one any time soon. The blog meanings were lots of fun and the winner on the poll, again, was Calie. Well done, Calie.

Drugget

A drugget is a coarse woollen floor or table covering. Interestingly, not drug related at all. Calie's meaning gained favour with the voters. Well done, Calie.

Calumny

Calumny is a false charge or a slanderous report against someone. I really enjoyed the invented meanings on the blog today. Well done to Madame C, whose meaning was the favourite among voters on the poll.

Shandrydan

A shandrydan is actually a rickety old vehicle or, alternatively, a two-wheeled cart. The invented meanings were interesting, as usual, and the winner on the poll was Clare. Well done, Clare.

Pellicle

A pellicle is a thin membrane, skin or film. Another incredible fact that I've completely missed all these years. However, it was another great day for invented meanings, particularly that of The Mad Fishicist. No competition there, TMF!

Cacography

Cacography actually has nothing to do with laughter or hens. It means bad spelling or bad handwriting! However, Vicki B's invented meaning took the voters' fancy today. Well done to the other two pollsters though. The vote was very close.

Medicaster

A medicaster is a medical charlatan or, in other words, a quack. I thoroughly enjoyed the meanings on the blog today and had a much needed laugh. My favourite was the winner on the poll - written by Sonnjea B. In fact, I think it's the funniest invented meaning I've ever seen on the blog and I've shared it will lots of people. So, thank you for that, Sonnjea.

Absquatulate

To absquatulate is actually to leave suddenly. Obviously something that's easier to do, than say! And not a suitable word to use during texting either. That aside, I liked the range of meanings on the blog. The poll winner was Pat. Congratulations to you, Pat.

Banting

Banting is the treatment of obesity by the removal of sugar, starch and fat from the diet. Sounds tricky. The invented meanings were interesting and well thought out and Sonnjea B's was the winner on the poll. Great work, Sonnjea.

Solifidian

A solifidian is someone who believes that having faith alone is enough to ensure salvation. Because I put this word on later than usual, and there was only one entry, I haven't put this word on the poll. However, the entry - from The Mad Fishicist - is wonderful and I'm sure would have been a winner on the poll anyway. So, in a slightly unorthodox turnaround, I'm announcing his entry as the winner and leaving the previous poll on for a little longer. Hope that isn't too disconcerting or confusing for you all. And thanks again TMF for another superb invented meaning.

Dalmatic

A dalmatic is a loose, long, side-slitted garment with wide sleeves which is worn by deacons and bishops from time to time. Sounds very much like a kaftan to me! Not sure why there's a sudden religious influence in the words on the blog at the moment. The invented entry from Eve's Lungs was the winner on the poll today.

Camerlingo

A camerlingo is the Pope's financial secretary. Now that could definitely come in handy some day. The blog meanings were excellent, as usual. Well done all. Clare and Sonnjea B shared the honours on the poll. Congratulations ladies.

Teledu

A teledu is actually a stinking badger from Java and Sumatra. That's "stinking" according to the dictionary, not me. We don't have badgers in New Zealand so I'm not sure if they usually stink or not! However, I have to say the invented blog meanings were far more entertaining than the real meaning, as usual. And the most entertaining of all, according to the voters and myself, was the meaning invented by The Mad Fishicist. Excellent work, TMF.

Naker

A naker is a kettledrum. I hope that isn't too disappointing for you all! And very well done for keeping the invented meanings within the realm of family entertainment as usual. The winner on the poll was suggested by Calie. Congrats again, Calie.

Myrmidon

A myrmidon is actually nothing quite as romantic as a mermaid. It's actually an ancient Greek word describing a hired ruffian. I enjoyed the interesting variety of meanings on the blog for this word. Keep up the great work. Floribunda's meaning drew the most votes on the poll. Well done, Floribunda.

Paronomasia

Paronomasia is what we do on this blog every day. It's word play. If only I could pronounce it! Thanks for your paronomasia on today's word. Poll winner was Sonnjea B. Great work, Sonnjea.

Distringas

A distringas is a writ which allows a sheriff to seize chattels to compel a person to pay money they owe. I hope that makes sense. Anyway, today's word attracted a good variety of invented meanings, all a lot less complicated than the real one. The winner on the poll, again, was Code Cutie.

Metheglin

Metheglin is actually spiced mead. The invented meanings were excellent today, with the winning entry being supplied by Code Cutie. Congrats, CC.

Drupe

Apparently, a drupe is the correct scientific name for any stone fruit such as an olive, plum or cherry which encloses the stone or nut with a kernel. There you go. If you knew that, you're better than me. However, I prefer Ron's meaning, as did the pollsters today. Well done, Ron.

Rodomontade

Rodomontade means boastful, something I admit to being every now and again. I'm trying to become more humble though. I enjoyed the meanings on the blog today and was pleased that Calie's meaning took the honours. Thanks, Calie.

Rille

A rille is an astronomical name for a narrow valley on the moon. Quite romantic really, I thought. A wide variety of invented meanings appeared on the blog, with Jude the favourite among the voters today. Well done, Jude.

Tenebrific

Funnily enough, tenebrific doesn't have anything to do with tennis, the number 10 or singing. Tenebrific means causing darkness. Thanks for putting your attention to this one. Two word imps fared equally well on the poll. Congratulations to Vicki B and Mmmmmmmm.

Algid

Algid means cold. Quite simple really. There weren't many invented meanings on the blog today, but they were all of high quality. The one that took the voters' fancy was invented by Stacy. Congrats for that, Stacy.

Flagitious

Flagitious is scary. It means deeply criminal. Not like anyone I know, thank goodness. (She said, hopefully...) The blog meanings were quite different to the real meaning, understandably. And the winner was Realityjunkie, again!

Sabulous

Sabulous actually means sandy. I'll remember that next time I'm at the beach. However, invented meanings are where it's at on this blog and the one invented by Realityjunkie was top of the pops today. Well done RJ.

Muffineer

A muffineer is actually a small bottle for sprinkling sugary or salty toppings on muffins. What a wonderful range of meanings on the blog today. I was excited to see so many participants but, of course, it made the job of choosing three for the poll excruciating. The winner on the poll for the day was the appropriately named Muffy M. Well done, MM.

Jobbernowl

A jobbernowl is a stupid person, colloquially speaking. There were some interesting invented meanings on the blog and two word imps share the honours according to the voting. Well done to Odalisque and Sonnjea B.

Dreamhole

A dreamhole is the name for a hole in the wall of a tower that lets in light. Thanks to those who humoured me with invented meanings for dreamhole. It was interesting to see the range of ideas and I'm pleased to announce that Sonnjea B topped the poll with her meaning. Great work, Sonnjea.

Hecatomb

Hecatomb is actually a word from ancient Greek meaning a great public sacrifice. The dictionary refers to the meaning translating from the words which mean 100 oxen. So there you go. Another piece of information that I have no guarantee of retaining. The invented meanings held a lot more intrigue for me and I particularly enjoyed the winning entry on the poll, written by Ron. Congratulations, Ron.

Squit

A squit is slang for a small insignificant person. Quite sad really. No one should be called a squit if you ask me. Lots of invented meanings for squit on the blog today. Thanks for your participation. I'm pleased to say that a new blogger, Code Cutie, is today's winner on the poll. Well done, CC.

Piliferous

Piliferous simply means having hair, particularly in the botanical sense. I was thrilled with the number and variety of meanings on the blog today. Weekends traditionally haven't been that busy on the blog, but that all changed today. Well done, everyone. Several new bloggers as well, including Code Cutie who is well named. Coolskool and Madame C were equally well favoured on the poll today. Well done to you both.

Stactometer

A stactometer is actually a tube for measuring liquid in drops. Fascinating. I think our invented meanings were a little livelier, don't you? Two winners on the poll again today - which was fair since both meanings had similarities. The honours go to Floribunda and Sonnjea B.

Frass

Frass is larvae excrement or the stuff left over by boring insects. Not sure why I seem attracted to words related to excreta lately. I'll try to make amends with the next word. Two people shared the top score on the poll today. Well done to Sara and Calie.

Bibelot

A bibelot (pronouced beblo) is a small curio or trinket. Now that could be a useful word for impressing antique dealers! The invented meanings have been judged by the voters and Belle Etoile has come up trumps again.

Spraints

Spraints is actually the official term for otter dung! Quite different entirely from the meanings invented on the blog today. But that's the way with this game. Calie's meaning was chosen by the voters on the poll. Congrats, Calie.

Polynia

Polynia is a space of open water surrounded by ice such as might be found in the Arctic Sea. I would never have guessed that in a million years, but there you go. A nice variety of meanings on the blog today, with some new entrants as well which is always encouraging. Auntibeck's meaning found favour with the voters. Well done, again Auntibeck!

Spuddling

Spuddling is actually light digging as performed by amateur gardeners such as myself - not the kind performed by most of my neighbours who - although not professional gardeners - are often found doing much more than spuddling in their gardens. I spuddled in my garden yesterday. Others toiled. The invented meanings were all very enjoyable and I'm pleased to announce that one of my favourites, from Sonnjea B, was the winner on the poll. Great work, Sonnjea.

Autarky

Autarky is self-sufficiency - quite a big leap from the invented meanings suggested by our bloggers today. I had a good laugh reading through the meanings, spelling mistakes and all. Quite a tonic! Belle Etoile was the belle of the poll today. Tres bien!

Febrifuge

Febrifuge, of course, is a medicine for reducing fever. It can also describing a cooling drink. I enjoyed the wide variety of invented meanings for today's word. It's so interesting to see how many different "takes" there can be on one word. I like analysing how bloggers came up with particular meanings. Two people tied on the poll today, which was great because I liked both meanings very much. Congratulations to Matt 23 and Calie.

Crenated

Crenated describes anything with a notched or toothed edge. The meaning suggested by Coolskool was today's winner. Congratulations, Coolskool. Yawl come back now, y'hear?

Beadledom

Beadledom is great. It's my new favourite word. The actual meaning is "stupid officiousness". So now we can actually go around accusing stupidly officious people of beadledom and they'll have no idea what we're on about! The blog meanings were cool too, of course. Sawmaster was the winner on the poll. Another first timer on the blog. Great work!

Messuage

Messuage is a legal term which describes a dwelling house with outbuildings and land. So, we were all way off beam on that one. I loved the blog meanings again. Nobody's losing the creative touch - especially not Realityjunkie who was the winner on the poll today. Good for you, RJ.

Spattee

A spattee is actually a woollen legging (or probably two) worn over shoes and stockings. The blog meanings were exceptional and the runaway winner on the poll was The Chindo. Well done, again.

Uxorious

I love this word. Uxorious means excessively fond of your wife. I'm all for that. Beats being excessively fond of someone else's wife! So girls, ask your hubby if he's feeling uxorious tonight and see what he says. I asked mine and he said, yes, but he thought it was caused by too much time in the sun! That gave me a giggle and giggles are good. The meaning suggested by Two Cents, a new blogger, came out tops on the poll. Congratulations, Two Cents.

Dipsomania

Dipsomania is a morbid craving for alcohol. Not something I have a problem with. Nor dips. I wonder what the word is for a morbid craving for chocolate! Interesting meanings on the blog today. Thanks for taking time out from your weekend to participate. Two winners delighted voters today. Congratulations to Calie and Auntibeck.

Tarantism

Tarantism is dancing mania, particularly related to a dance mania in Southern Italy among people who thought they'd been bitten by a tarantula! Creepy. Auntibeck's invented meaning was the favourite today. Good for you, Auntibeck.

Squaloid

Squaloid means "like a shark". Mmmm. Obviously, it's never too late to learn something new. Sonnjea B's invented meaning found favour with the voters. Good job, Sonnjea.

Irredentist

Interestingly, an irredentist has nothing to do with teeth. Instead, an irredentist is an advocate for the recovery of all Italian speaking districts back to Italy. That said, I have to admit that the blog meanings were more interesting - if slightly cheeky in the case of the poll winner, The Mad Fishicist. Great work again TMF.

Cryptaesthesia

Cryptaesthesia is supernormal knowledge - however, not the kind we're all gaining through our participation in this knowledge increasing blog. Cryptaesthesia is knowledge gained through telepathic or clairvoyant means. I thoroughly enjoyed reading all the invented meanings added to the blog today. Winner on the poll was Hello from Julia, a meaning I enjoyed very much indeed. Thanks again, Julia.

Fosse

A fosse is a long narrow trench, ditch, canal or groove. I particularly enjoyed today's invented meanings and am pleased to report that Rainbowspirit topped the poll with her invented meaning. Great work!

Oxymel

Oxymel is a syrup of honey and vinegar. Not sure of the purpose of such a syrup. Perhaps it's a cure for sunburn or hangovers - both of which were prevalent at the Wellington Rugby Sevens tournament I've just been visiting. See my other blog for more information about that. And I've noticed that, while mother word imp was away, the little word imps did play - literally. Joint winners on the poll were Madame C and Realityjunkie. Well done, both of you.

Etiolate

To etiolate a plant or person is to deprive them of light until they develop a sickly hue. Not something I recommend. I'm a person who likes a lot of light myself. Anyway, it's a word that got the word imps thinking hard and that's always worthwhile. Shari and Auntibeck were both equally favoured by the voters. So, yet another tie on the poll. Well done, you two.

Quadroon

A quadroon is actually a person of quarter Negro blood. As always, there were some interesting suggestions on the blog. The winning suggestion was that of The Chindo. Well done, TC.

Rhotacize

To rhotacize, you need to speak with a lot of emphasis on the letter "r". It's also the term for converting other sounds into "r", as small children sometimes do. In New Zealand, people who live in Southland (particularly around a place called Gore) are reknowned for their rhotacism. The Maori language puts emphasis on the letter "r" as well, so I guess that's rhotacism too. However, I didn't know there was a name for it. Now I do, and so do you. Go forth and educate. Alternatively, think erotic thoughts about soft fruit, as suggested by Squishy Mama - today's winner on the poll. Well done, Squishy Mama! You go girl!

Oxter

Your oxter is your armpit. Who knew? Not me, that's for sure. As always, I enjoyed the meanings contributed by today's participants and particularly those of the joint winners - Haberman's Habits and Molly Malone. Excellent work, both of you.

Cachinnate

To cachinnate actually means to laugh loudly. I do it often - particularly when I'm on holiday with my sisters which I have been for the last couple of days. Thanks for the inventive meanings. The Mad Fishicist was today's winner. Good work, TMF.

Fatidical

Fatidical actually means gifted with prophetic power. So, nothing like the invented meanings at all - but that's always a good thing. Today's favourite on the poll was suggested by Sonnjea B. Well done, Sonnjea.

Lobscouse

Lobscouse is a delicious meal for sailors consisting of meat stewed with vegetables and ship's biscuit. Mmmmmm. I think I'll stick to being a landlubber for now. I loved the meanings on the blog for this word. Very inventive indeed. Two people shared the honours again. Calamity Jane and Realityjunkie were the winners. Great work, you two.

Jannock

A jannock is actually a synonym for straight up, honest and genuine. Basically, a good sort of person to be around. Two people were tied on the poll today(sounds painful, doesn't it?). But fortunately for them, this kind of poll means they're both winners. Congratulations to The Chindo and Belle Etoile (both new and dedicated players).

Xyster

A xyster is pretty frightening. It's a surgical instrument for scraping bones. All the nurse and doctor bloggers out there would have known that one, of course. "Pass the xyster, nurse." "Of course, doctor. Right away." The thought of scraping bones is one I've decided not to dwell on, though. One of the reasons I wasn't keen to follow a career in medicine. I really liked Shari's meaning and it was the favourite on the poll too, so there you go. Full points to you, Shari.

Taradiddle

A taradiddle is a fib or a lie. My children were reluctant to think up meanings for taradiddle as it sounded "rude". Not so the word imps. There were plenty of bloggers willing to stretch their brain matter on this one - with a large percentage mentioning Ireland. Winner on the poll was Realityjunkie. A first win too, so great work.

Wayzgoose

A wayzgoose is the annual festivity of a printing house. Origin unknown. Perhaps someone in the printing trade can enlighten us on that one! Being a writer, perhaps one day I'll be invited to a wayzgoose. There were certainly some interesting meanings on the blog today, with a deserved win on the poll to Sara. Well done, Sara.

Vomer

A vomer is a small thin bone between your nostrils. Bet you didn't know it even had a name! Well, I didn't, anyway. Hopefully I'll be able to remember it one day when I need to be a scintillating conversationalist. There was another tie on the voting poll today. This time it's Belle Etoile and The Mad Fishicist who take the honours.