Originally Posted By: Gordon Scott
https://www.rd.com/list/words-changed-meaning/
https://artandhome.net/words-that-have-changed-meaning/


Gordon, thank you.

I've read both your links. It seems I've ruffled feathers because some think I've somehow said words never change what they once meant. I think I actually said they mean what they first meant.

I think it is most accurate to say that that is true, but that usage changes.

In the Reader's Digest examples of 'unbelievable' and 'fizzle' this is well illustrated. These are both examples of words whose original meanings persist ... or else how could the writer define what they originally meant, but now have change usage. Unbelievable has gone according to the author from 'lying' to 'hard to believe.' Fizzle had gone from the 'escaping gas' as in a carbonated beverage to something in the process of 'failing' or 'playing out.' Actually, I think most commonly uses as 'fizzled out'... as happens when your soda goes flat.

I think in both examples the changing usage is quite clearly an understandable progression of usage. And, were you to read or hear sung anything created when the earlier meaning was dominant, you would need to know that meaning to understand ... which would be what it meant when first used.

It is one thing for language to organically evolve. It is another to promote a politically motivated cancellation of words to promote a particular ideology.

I think they are adept at that in authoritarian countries.

Help! I've fallen up and can't get down!