Fireplaces Archives – A Way with Words

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Currently viewing the tag: "Fireplaces"

Zoning Out at the Computer Until the Only Light is Your Screen

Posted by Grant Barrett on February 10, 2017 · Add Comment

Is there a word to describe focusing so intently on your computer that you don’t notice the sun has gone down and the only light in your room is from your computer screen? A Twitter user suggests the neologism screenhearthing. Or is there a better word? Screensetting, perhaps? The English word focus, by the way, [...]

BBQ Abbreviation

Posted by grantbarrett on December 6, 2013 · Add Comment

Texas Monthly barbecue editor Daniel Vaughn has been mulling how to classify the term BBQ, since the “Q” reflects sound, not an initial. It’s a type of abbreviation called clipping. BBQ goes back to restaurant signs and menus from the 1930’s where space was at a premium. This is part of a complete episode.

Blow the Soot Out

Posted by Grant Barrett on June 2, 2012 · Add Comment

If you’re blowing the soot out, you might literally be clearing the soot out of a flue. By extension, it’s a term that means “relieving stress.” This is part of a complete episode.

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Zoning Out at the Computer Until the Only Light is Your Screen

BBQ Abbreviation

Blow the Soot Out