Head Negro in Charge n.— «The current king of comedy is only too aware that his reign is painfully temporary. Farley goes on to write about “the HNIC—the Head Negro in Charge,” a term coined by observant black Americans describing white-dominated...
halo car n. an automobile model that lends prestige or attractiveness to the brands and other models of its manufacturer. Editorial Note: This use of halo is derived from halo effect, a tendency of a favorable trait or product to lend credibility or...
bowing n.— «She has ruffled many a feather by taking on the great masculine taboo of “bowing” (cunnilingus) with her single “Do It to Me,” and sees testosterone-fuelled dancehall’s tendency toward homophobia as “ridiculous.”» —“Queens of...
mouth-breather n. a stupid person; a moron, dolt, imbecile. Editorial Note: The original definition of mouth-breather referred to a person that, due to medical problems (usually with the sinuses or nose), was forced to breath via the mouth. This...
matchbook college n. a (real or figurative) school of higher learning with low academic standards. Also matchbook university. Etymological Note: From the supposed tendency of such a school to advertise on matchbook covers. Sometimes capitalized as...
rat line n. a covert path or itinerary used for smuggling, escape, or supply. Etymological Note: This term derives from the tendency of rats to create routes that are out of sight as much as possible, following perimeters and the bases of...