20 Old English Words That Deserve a Comeback

Languages are dynamic and ever-evolving. As times change, so do the words and expressions that we use in our daily lives. However, this constant development also leads to the loss of some words that have fallen out of common usage. In the English language, many words that were once popular in Shakespearean times have become obsolete. Although these archaic terms may no longer be in fashion, they hold a unique charm and character that could add some color to our daily communication. With this in mind, here are 20 old English words that deserve to make a comeback.

1. Bunbury

Bunbury is an imaginary person whose name is used as an excuse to do something, especially to visit a place. Bunbury was famously used in Oscar Wilde’s ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’, where the main character Ernest used the name as a cover for his misadventures.

2. Scurrilous

Scurrilous refers to something said or done unfairly to make people have a bad opinion of someone. This word could be used to describe a person who spreads malicious rumors or distorts the truth to tarnish someone’s reputation.

3. Gallimaufry

Gallimaufry is a hodgepodge or jumbled medley, which can also refer to an edible dish. This word could be used to describe a meal that is a mix of different cuisines, or a gathering of people from different backgrounds.

4. Thrice

Thrice is an adverb that means three times. This word could be used to express the need for someone to do something three times or to emphasize the importance of doing something repeatedly.

5. Blithering

Blithering is an adjective used to describe someone who is talking utterly and completely foolishly or is a foolish person. This word could be used to describe someone who is speaking incoherently or is making irrational comments without any logic.

6. Pluviophile

Pluviophile is a noun used to describe a person who takes great joy and comfort in rainy days. This word could be used to describe someone who loves the sound of rain, the smell of wet earth, or enjoys spending rainy days indoors.

7. Librocubularist

Librocubularist is a noun used to describe someone who reads in bed. This word could be used to describe a person who enjoys reading a book before falling asleep or someone who spends hours reading in bed.

8. Febricula

Febricula is a noun that refers to a slight and transient fever. This word could be used to describe someone who has a low-grade fever or who is feeling slightly feverish.

9. Starrify

Starrify is a verb that means to decorate with stars. This word could be used to describe the act of adding stars or glitter to a dress, a hairstyle, or a stage decoration.

10. Sophronize

Sophronize is a verb that means to imbue with sound moral principles or self-control. This word could be used to describe the process of instilling values, such as honesty, integrity, or self-discipline, in someone’s character.

11. Mullock

Mullock is a noun that means rubbish, nonsense, or waste matter. This word could be used to describe something that is of no value, is misleading, or is unwanted.

12. Uglyography

Uglyography is a noun that refers to poor handwriting and bad spelling. This word could be used to describe the illegible or poorly written handwriting that is difficult to read or understand.

13. Namelings

Namelings are those who bear the same name. This word could be used to describe a group of people who have similar names, such as two “Johns” or three “Marys”.

14. Ultracrepidarianism

Ultracrepidarianism is a noun that refers to the habit of giving opinions and advice on matters outside of one’s knowledge. This word could be used to describe someone who thinks they are an expert on everything, but in fact, have no expertise in any particular field.

15. Pannychis

Pannychis is a noun that means an all-night feast or ceremony. This word could be used to describe an overnight celebration or party that involves food, drink, and music.

16. Guttle

Guttle is a verb that means to gobble greedily; to cram food into one’s gut. This word could be used to describe someone who eats like a pig or gorges on food with no regard for etiquette or manners.

17. Snollyguster

Snollyguster is a noun that refers to a person, especially a politician, who is guided by personal advantage rather than by consistent, respectable principles. This word could be used to describe someone who is sneaky, dishonest, or selfish.

18. Welkin

Welkin is a noun that refers to the upper sky or “vault” of heaven. This word could be used to describe the vast expanse of the sky or the celestial firmament.

19. Barbigerous

Barbigerous is an adjective that means characterized by having a beard. This word could be used to describe someone who maintains a bushy, full beard or someone who has a well-groomed goatee.

20. Eventide

Eventide is a noun that means the end of the day, just as evening approaches. This word could be used to describe the beautiful, serene time just before the sun sets.

Lastly, let us not forget one fun little Anglo-Saxon term: Uhtceare. Uhtceare is a verb that means to lie awake in the period just before dawn because you are worrying too much to be able to sleep. This word could be used to describe the anxiety that keeps us awake at night or the concerns that weigh heavily on our minds.

In conclusion, the English language has a rich and fascinating history, and it’s worth exploring some of the words from its past. These words may have fallen out of common usage, but their unique character and charm can add color and variety to our daily communication. Who knows, maybe if we start using them again, they might just make a comeback.