One of the things I adore about language study is finding out intriguing facts like this:
Fossil word: A word that is broadly obsolete but remains in current use due to its presence within an idiom.
Words fall in and out of usage, or change definitions, but the idea that there are eddies where a word can take refuge is so gratifying.
Additionally, it is amusing to look over the list of phrases containing archaic words. Some of my favorites are:
- Figment of imagination
- Inclement weather (referenced in this Paul McCartney song)
- Wreak havoc
Can you think of any others?
