This week’s Slang This! contestant finds out whether the word puddle is a slang term for part of a car’s muffler and if the expression hang paper involves flying kites. This is part of a complete episode.
In this episode, Grant offers a peek at some expressions he’s nominating for the American Dialect Society’s 2007 Word of the Year vote in January, 2008. Will it be w00t, subprime, or something else? You can also check out Grant’s...
finnegan pin
n.— «Finnegan pin…A nonexistent object used as the basis of practical jokes.…A finnegan pin in the muffler gear.» —, 1968. (source: Double-Tongued Dictionary)
smitty n.— «My prefered method of quieting an engine is to use a short “turbo” type muffler just behind the engine. This is followed by a crossover pipe connecting the two banks together and then a “smitty” to...
smitty n. a type of automobile muffler known for its (powerful or resonant) sound. Etymological Note: Probably from the “Smithy” muffler brand. (source: Double-Tongued Dictionary)
smitty
n.— «For Sale. Smitty muffler, $2.» —in classifieds Daily Northwestern (Oshkosh, Wisc.) May 11, 1965. (source: Double-Tongued Dictionary)