talking dictionary
n.— «A few British bachelors developed liaisons with local lasses, usually tea-pickers. Such women were euphemistically—and imaginatively—called “talking dictionaries.” For she also helped to brush up the man’s knowledge of Tamil—a prerequisite then, as now, for advancement in a planter’s career.» —“Tea-time tricks” by George N. Netto Indian Express (Mumbai) June 14, 2005. (source: Double-Tongued Dictionary)
Further reading
In the 15th century, the word respair meant “to have hope again.” Although this word fell out of use, it’s among dozens collected in a new book of soothing vocabulary for troubled times. Plus, baseball slang: If a batter...
Cat hair may be something you brush off, but cat hair is also a slang term that means “money.” In the same way, cat beer isn’t alcoholic — some people use cat beer as a joking term for “milk.” And imagine walking on a...