[I really had a graphic to go right here. Really! But they keep “improving” WordPress so I can’t do the things I used to. I tried, changed its format, tried again, etc. Sorry!]
We accept that humans evolve, it seems like anything humans are involved with evolve as well. Look at tools and for that matter, breathable air. Such is the case with words.
What’s cool is now hot, or is it the other way around?
The most obvious change for a word is the meaning of “gay.” No sense exploring that any further.
“Homely” is an interesting word. It used to mean homie as in comforting and safe. A homely woman would make a good wife; now—I’ll stay out of that discussion.
Once upon a time we referred to fishermen as “anglers.” The Compleat Angler by Izaak Walton was an important book that was the first something or other (according to the Dominican Nuns at my grade school). However, no one that I know grabs a rod, reel and a bucket of worms to go angling.
A young man might once have been referred to as “strapping”—that is, as Merriam Webster says, “having a vigorously strong constitution.” You or I might characterize such a person as, “Don’t p!$$ him off!”
The younger readers, if I have any, might now quote Katie Perry with “You’re up when you’re down.” We older folks might prefer the Beatles, “You say yes, I say No.”
In any case, words change their meanings over time. Might be a good thing to remember.
sfnowak 