Hanukkah Bush n.— «For many years, some Jewish children who have longed for a Christmas tree have been permitted by their parents to have a “Hanukkah Bush.” This is a tree with the Star of David or a candelabra—the symbol of...
shaka n.— «They speak pidgin English by choice and eagerly flash the “shaka sign” (thumb and little finger up) as a symbol of their Hawaiian coolness.» —“The quiet side of Big Island is just one of many...
scarlet letter n. a license plate that indicates the automobile’s owner has been convicted of driving while drunk. Etymological Note: This is a more specific sense of scarlet letter ‘a badge or symbol worn to indicate the bearer has committed a...
ziatype n. a photo-printing process that uses palladium and platinum and does not require developer fluid. Etymological Note: The process was created by photographer Richard Sullivan of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Technical details of ziatype can be found...
eve-teasing n.— «To snatch a girl’s dupatta is one of the forms of “eve-teasing” which occurs on many a school bus.» —“Women and Their Affines: The Veil as a Symbol of Separation” by Ursula M...
socks and knocks n.pl.— «Sulfur is capable of forming more than one oxide…, conveniently lumped together with the symbol SOx. Similarly, nitrogen can produce more than one oxide; they are lumped together as NOx.…Sometimes...