Should We Let Endangered Words Die?

The “endangered” words on Collins’ list remain in their largest dictionary, but are no longer included in smaller published dictionaries.

Some of these words apply to items that are simply no longer in use, like a cyclogiro (a type of airplane) or charabanc (a model of motorcoach). These terms have value among specialists and historians, maybe even hipsters looking for a good band name, but will probably never be revived into common speech.

Some, however, sound pretty useful to me.

The word wittol, used for a man who tolerates his wife’s cheating, could class up the celebrity gossip sites. It sounds kinder than doormat.

Woolfell, the fleece and skin of a sheep or similar furry animal, must serve a technical purpose for the farming industry.

Clunkier words like succedaneum (a substitute) or supererogate (to do more than is required) are a mouthful, yes. Still, they might have a place somewhere in the 21st century. Say, on reruns of Frasier, or in the essays of well-meaning undergrads with thesaurus apps.

If nothing else, writers and language buffs get their kicks from little-used words. For more rare vocabulary, check out Matador’s 20 obsolete English words that should make a comeback, or “adopt” a little-used English word from SavetheWords.org. Sure, language is meant to evolve, but isn’t malagrugruous more fun to say than shitty? * Story from the Guardian