Sesquipedalian Words; Part One, 1-16
Etymologically, from Latin sesquipedalis; literally, a foot and a half long, from sesqui- + ped-, pes, foot. Date of origin in English is believed to be from 1656.
1. Having many syllables, long; as in “sesquipedalian terms”.
2. Given to or characterized by the use of long words; “a sesquipedalian political statement”.
3. Long and ponderous; polysyllabic.
4. Measuring or containing a foot and a half; as, a sesquipedalian pygmy; sometimes humorously applied to long words (as in the “Verba Obscura” shown below).
5. Given to the overuse of long words; as with “sesquipedalian political orators”.
A reference to the use of long words; especially when verbal construction utilizing less amplification might represent a more naturally efficacious phraseology, so as a result, we get verba obscura.
“Nancy and Sluggo” comic strip created by Ernie Bushmiller (1905-1982),
March 5, 1962. Copyright by United Features Syndicate.
See if you can determine the meanings of the following sesquipedialian “common proverbs” or sayings before you click on the solutions.
Verba Obscura #1
A lithoid form, whose onward course
Is shaped by gravitational force,
Can scarce enjoy the consolation
Of bryophytic aggregation.
Go here for Translation #1.
Verba Obscura #2
Of little value his compunctions
Who assumes clavinous functions
When once from circumambient pen,
Is snatched its equine denizen.
Go here for Translation #2.
Verba Obscura #3
It’s possible to conduct an equine quadruped to the immediate vicinity of an aqueous liquid, but bibulation cannot be induced by any coercive process.
Go here for Translation #3.
Verba Obscura #4
Subterranean entry port.
Go here for Translation #4.
Verba Obscura #5
A mass of concentrated geolithic or lapitarial material perennially rotating on its axis will not accumulate an accretion of muscus growth.
Go here for Translation #5.
|
Part 1, if you want to see it again.