Spizzerinctum
Noun
- Determination, ardor, or zeal.
- Chutzpah, guts, nerve, or backbone.
Example Sentences
“I didn’t think he’d finish the marathon, but his spizzerinctum carried him to the finish line.”
“With enough spizzerinctum, there’s almost nothing you can’t accomplish.”
“Gather up your spizzerinctum, and ask her to the dance.”
Word Origin
American English, mid-19th century
Why this word?
“Spizzerinctum” doesn’t appear in every modern dictionary, but the intriguingly spelled synonym of “determined fortitude” does still show up in the online editions of Merriam-Webster, Collins, and Green’s Dictionary of Slang. An NPR History Department article titled “7 Lost American Slang Words” includes “spizzerinctum” in the company of “dingus” (“a nebulous, unspecified object”), “bazoo” (“mouth”), and “ginchy” (“excellent”).
top picks in optimism network
Word Daily is part of Optimism, which publishes content that uplifts, informs, and inspires.
-
More brands you’ll love
Elevate Your Everyday
More brands you’ll loveElevate Your Everyday
Subscribe to Better Report to receive tips and tricks that will save you money, maximize your time, and improve your life.
Subscribe to Better Report
By clicking “Subscribe” you’re agreeing to Better Report Terms of Use and Privacy Policy
