- Today's Word
Whippersnapper
[WHIP-er-snap-er]
Definition
- (noun) A young and inexperienced person who is presumptuous or overconfident. It’s often used by older people to describe younger individuals who they perceive as cheeky, impertinent, or lacking respect for their elders.
Example
The grumpy old man shouted at the whippersnapper to get off his lawn, muttering about how kids these days have no respect for other people’s property.
Fun Fact
The term “whippersnapper” originated in the 17th century. It’s believed to be a variation of the phrase “whip snapper,” which referred to a young person who had nothing better to do than hang around snapping whips to pass the time. Over time, it evolved to describe any young person seen as idle or impertinent.
(noun) Deep, persistent bitterness or resentment.
Years after their falling-out, a quiet rancor still lingered between them.
From Latin rancere, meaning “to stink” or “be rotten,” echoing the idea of bitterness that festers over time.