matasano
n.— «Fast tangent: I learned recently that a slang word for doctor here is “matasanos”—literally, “kill healthy ones.” Like the old term “sawbones” in the States.» —runswithscissors (Madrid, Spain) Apr. 11, 2004. (source: Double-Tongued Dictionary)
Further reading
Oofless is an antiquated bit of British slang that describes someone temporarily short on cash. It’s from ooftisch, a Yiddish-derived term for “cash placed on the table,” from German auf Tisch. This is part of a complete episode. Transcript of...
Carpe diem! A new book reveals the surprisingly unfamiliar stories behind familiar quotations. Also: Rock climbers have gumbies, and surfers have kooks. What do those words say about beginners who have more confidence than experience? Plus, if...