The Deadword Dictionary: A Book of Outdated Words

by Sasha Newborn

The Deadword Dictionary was first written more than twenty years ago. I’m making some changes, based on further refinement of the concept, and also including an “Iffy” section. Here are the rules for the selection of Orphans, words used in only a single common expression, with no flexibility, such as “yore” as in “days of yore.” Faux amis, words borrowed from another language but misunderstood or misapplied (à la mode) Obsolete words or phrases Iffy words—you decide whether they still have weight in today’s language. You might call this the rearview mirror perspective, with a “huh” under one’s breath. Yeah? They really said that? The English language is like a kitchen it picks up all the tiny pieces of we-don’t-know-what but we need a word, so we’ll just use this stray one from we-don’t-care-where. But when did you last see a “doublet” or “spitoon” or use “whilom”—why keep them around? A little housecleaning is in order here. Got your favorite overworked obsolete nugget? Send it in to bandanna@cox.net.

54 pages, Paperback

First published January 25, 2014

About the author

Editor-publisher Bandanna Books 1981-present
Partner in Mudborn Press 1975-1981
Designer/typesetter Black Sparrow 1975-2003
Radio producer 1977-1983
Freelance writer New York City 1968-1973
Editor Middle Earth newspaper 1966-1967
Peace Corps teacher Tanzania 1963-1965

Currently semi-retired in Santa Barbara. Hiker, biker, snorkeler, "book doc," publisher