Elder Dictionary

Elderly Terms, Meanings and Definitions

Glossary

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rome wasn't built in a day, phrase

An expression implying you cannot get to the end result right away; you have to build up to it.
Dan, you can't go from sitting at a desk all the time to standing all the time; Rome wasn't built in a day.

Added on March 1, 2012 by Brent

rubber, noun

Rubber shoe covers, worn in inclement weather to protect your real shoes.
Bob, be sure to put on your rubbers before you leave for the store.

Added on September 19, 2011 by Brent

whipper-snappers, noun

/hwip-er-snap-ers/

An arrogant or ornery young person Usually the partially grow up version of a little bugger.
That dang whipper-snapper threw my newspaper right threw a window and didn't even apologize!

Added on October 7, 2011 by Brent

jeepers, interjection

/jee-perz/

A mild exclamation of surprise; a euphemism for Jesus.
Jeepers! I didn't expect your parents to be home already.

Added on May 11, 2011 by Bryan B.

communist, noun

/kom-yuh-nist/

A person who is regarded as supporting politically leftist or subversive causes. Often used interchangeably with pinko, hippie or democrat.
Look at that communist trying to work at the food pantry.

Added on May 12, 2011 by Cheryl S

have a cow, phrase

To have a hissy fit over something. To complain or react strongly to something.
Don't have a cow, mom... it's just a small speeding ticket!

Added on May 14, 2011 by Cheryl S

hippie, noun

/hip-ee/

A person sporting tie-dye, sandals or hair longer than a regulation flat top. Often interchangeable with communist, pinko or democrat.
Is that hippie a girl or a boy, mommy?

Added on May 12, 2011 by Cheryl S

mooning, verb

/moon-ing/

To sentimentalize or remember nostalgically. Also used later to describe flashing one's pale buttocks at another person, much like the full moon.
1. He spent the day mooning about his lost love. 2. They drove quickly in their Chevy to not get busted mooning others.

Added on May 12, 2011 by Cheryl S

pinko, noun

/pink-o/

Communist or left leaning politically.
Get out of here, you pinko! We don't want more people registered to vote.

Added on May 12, 2011 by Cheryl S

rabbit ears, phrase

/rah-bit eerz/

Indoor television antennae, usually covered with balls of aluminum foil used for getting the 2-3 channels available. Must be frequently repositioned.
That's right Susie! Hold the rabbit ears right like that so we can see Walter Cronkite clearly.

Added on May 14, 2011 by Cheryl S

rheumatism medicine, phrase

/ru-ma-tiz-um/

Strong alcoholic drink, often whiskey based. May also be a synonym for "snake bite medicine."
Son, pour me another glass of my Rheumatism Medicine before my symptoms flare up again.

Added on May 14, 2011 by Cheryl S

afield, adverb

/a-feeld/

To travel a large distance away from home. Used to describe people at war, or out hunting.
Both of our lads are afield at war.

Added on May 14, 2011 by danielslaughter

all dolled up, phrase

To be appropriately dressed in such a way that you're ready for the evening ahead of you. Typically to be glamorous.
Missy was all dolled up for the evening with her blouse and brooch, while Theodore had only his every-day slacks at hand.

Added on February 21, 2012 by danielslaughter

as the crow flies, phrase

The shortest distance between two points.
The building we can see off in the distance probably isn't as far away as the crow flies.

Added on May 16, 2012 by danielslaughter

baloney

Used when someone is talking nonsense, being foolish, or not trustworthy. Often used as "full of baloney."
You're so full of baloney, George. There's no way you flushed the lavatory.

Added on July 14, 2021 by danielslaughter