(n.) /vɛˈliːɪti/
Velleity is a perfect word to describe a wish or inclination which is not quite strong enough to actively pursue or lead a person to action. It can describe an idle wish or passing idea, as well. The plural is ‘velleities.’
Examples of use:
The idea was intriguing, but it remained a velleity.
Their head is full of velleities, but no real plans.
Etymology: Early 17th century. From Medieval Latin ‘velleitas’, from Latin ‘velle’ (to wish).
(n.) /ˈblaðəskʌɪt/
We all know at least one of these, I think. Blatherskite is a charming word to describe a person who talks excessively but says little that makes sense. It can also be used as a mass noun to describe nonsense or talk without substance.
Examples of use:
That blatherskites in the café were annoying, yet somewhat entertaining.
Every time I post something, one of those trolling blatherskites chimes in.
He keeps trying to impress people, but he is just full of blatherskite.
Politicians have a tendency towards obfuscating blatherskite.
Etymology: Mid 17th century. From Scottish ‘blather’ (to talk excessively without sense) + ‘skate’ (denoting a person regarded with contempt).
(adj.) /ʃmɪk/
A great little word that comes to us from Australian informal usage, schmick describes something as smart or stylish.
The new colour schemes are exceptionally schmick
She was going for more of an antique finish, and didn’t want it to look too schmick.
Here’s how to install this schmick fold-away projector system.
Etymology: 1980s, unknown.
(adj.) /ˈkuːθi/
Couthy (alternately, couthie), is a sweet little word that can refer to either a person or a place. It can mean warm and friendly or cozy and comfortable, respectively. We could all use some more couthy places in our lives.
Examples of use:
The group of friends sat late into the night, enjoying some couthy jokes.
This book is full of couthy characters whom you can’t help but love.
What a couthy wee tavern!
Her house was modern yet couthy, making it a great place for dinner parties.
Etymology: Early 18th century, apparently from Old English cūth ‘known’ + -y (also -ie).
(v.) /əbˈskwɒtjʊleɪt/
This one makes me giggle every time I see it, which, to be fair, is not often. I figured everyone can use a good chuckle on a Monday, so I hope you find it as amusing as I do. Absquatulate means to leave abruptly, often with the connotation of avoiding pursuit or not telling anyone where one is going. It can also be used in a noun form as ‘absquatulation.’
‘I heard that my boss was looking for volunteers, so I prepared to absquatulate.’
‘The criminal absquatulated to a non-extradition country.’
‘Every time I start the vaccuum, my cat absquatulates.’
Etymology: Mid 19th century. Blend (simulating a Latin form) of abscond, squattle ‘squat down’, and perambulate.
Cor Lingua 