- Today's Word
Hornswoggle
[HORN-swog-ul]
Definition
- (verb) To deceive, cheat, or trick someone, often in a humorous or mischievous way. It can also refer to getting the better of someone through clever manipulation or by taking advantage of their gullibility.
Example
The wily salesman managed to hornswoggle the unsuspecting customer into buying a dozen overpriced vacuum cleaners, promising him a once-in-a-lifetime deal that was simply too good to pass up.
Fun Fact
The etymology of “hornswoggle” is a bit of a mystery, but it is believed to have originated in the United States during the early 19th century. One theory suggests that it may be derived from the Scottish word “foozle,” meaning to bungle or botch something, combined with the word “horn,” possibly referring to the act of trumping or outplaying someone.
(verb) To bear fruit or become productive; to make fruitful or productive
Years of patient investment in the community finally began to fructify, with new businesses and gathering spaces opening across the neighborhood.
Fructify derives from the Latin fructificare — from fructus (“fruit”) + facere (“to make”). It entered English in the 14th century, used first in its literal agricultural sense before quickly extending to describe any endeavor that yields results after a period of cultivation and patience.