WORDS FOR THINGS YOU DIDN'T KNOW HAVE NAMES

Can it be that every single thing, object, part, feeling, action has a name? Would not it be fantastic if we had all these words in use? Quite impossible, though. From objects to feelings, technical to artistic, the language is full of little unusual words. The Merriam-Webster dictionary has published a top ten list of “words for things you didn’t know have names”. Take a look at the last positions. Click here to check the list

#9: Lemniscate

 

Definition:

lemniscate : the infinity symbol (or more precisely, "a figure-eight shaped curve whose equation in polar coordinates is ρ²=a² cos 2θ or ρ²=a² sin 2θ")

Example Sentence:

Not surprisingly, a certain brand of automobile uses a modified lemniscate in its logo.

Origin:

Lemniscate comes from a Latin word that means "with hanging ribbons" – an origin that's reflected in the symbol's graceful shape.

#10: Fourchette

Definition:

fourchette : the strip or shaped piece used for the sides of the fingers of a glove

Example Sentence:

A fine pair of gloves includes well-fitted fourchettes.

Origin:

The French word fourchette (pronounced "foor-SHET") means "fork." It was applied to this item presumably because of the forking pattern of the fingers.