Word of the Day: squintifego

squintifego (adj or n)

Squinting; one who squints.

"Having lost his glasses in the fight, Clive stumbled home squintifego, bumping into light posts, parked cars, and trash cans, as if in a drunken stupor. Finally reaching his door, he stepped on the cat, which let out a piercing cry that could be heard all over the neighborhood."
--Leahcim Setag, Strange Loops

I even squint while wearing my glasses, as if it will somehow make the words I read on screen all day (I'm an editor) make more sense than they do. I used to squint when I wore contact lenses, too, but that was mainly because it actually made them focus better.

Evil doers on TV and in films tend to squint while hatching their diabolical plans. And people assume you're thinking cynical thoughts when you squint at them -- as if squinting somehow gives one the ability to "see through" facades and deceptions. Next time someone says something unpleasant to you, try cocking your head a little and squinting at them. Chances are, the better angels of their nature will take over, they'll sputter a bit, and then recant.

Or maybe they'll just ask you if you forgot your glasses.

~~~

Meanwhile....

The world's greatest mystery? (Thanks, Gil)