If you vouch for something, you guarantee that what you’re saying is true. In the early 14th century, vouch was a transitive verb that meant “to summon into court to prove a title.” Vouch was adapted into English from an Old French...
orphan disease n.— «A 12-year-old Simi Valley boy with a rare immune system disorder has inspired a series of benefits to help find a cure for what is known as an “orphan disease” because it affects too few children to warrant...
spotter n.— «One of the greatest enforcers of virtue—a “spotter” in the parlance of the day—was the Rev. Henry N. Pringle, secretary of the Maine Christian Civic League. He appeared in the Queen City on Monday, June 24, to...
jail therapy n.— «Sheriffs complain that Texas parole officers issue “blue warrants” for offenders over technical violations when they have no intention of recommending revocation of the offender to prison. The PO’s slang for...
knock-and-talk n.— «A knock-and-talk search works like this: Police officers go to the door of a residence in which they suspect illegal activity is occurring. They knock, introduce themselves as a police officer, and ask to come in and...
swear-to n.— «Ingham County Prosecutor Stuart Dunnings III requested the Monday morning hearing—often called a “swear-to,” where police present facts needed to issue an arrest warrant—be sealed.» —“Evidence in arrest of...