spit and acquit n.— «Defendants charged with low-level drug offenses under existing statutes can have their charges dismissed if they participate in drug treatment programs or undergo court supervision. But under the district attorney’s...
Santa Claus rally n.— «Stocks have lost ground since the Dow rose 19.6 percent from late November to the first part of 2009—a year-end advance often referred to as a Santa Claus rally.» —“Stocks tumble as oil falls on economic...
wet reckless adj.— «Blood tests after her traffic stop Sept. 27 found prescription drugs, but neither booze nor dope. So she was allowed to plead “no contest” to what’s known in California as “wet reckless”—that...
orphan plane n.— «They’re owners of what the aviation industry calls “orphan” planes: There’s no warranty on their new aircraft and no factory to easily supply spare parts.» —“Plane owners grounded by manufacturer...
Grant dishes up the latest language headlines from around the world, including names so weird they sparked legal action. Two New Zealand parents really did name their daughter “Talula Does the Hula From Hawaii.” Also, what’s wrong...
yoging n.— «Amey Mathews of Santa Cruz has been practicing yoga since 1994. She teaches it, too. In fact, Amey puts in lots of hours “yoging” (as she calls it), and it makes her very hungry.» —“Back Burner: This blogger...