A few thoughts on words and their evolving meanings

I'm responding to the letter regarding the "hijacking" by the Jewish people of the word Semitic. While I enjoyed the history of the words evolution I was a little concerned that there was an unspoken message hidden between the words of the letter. Clearly the author's intent was to  criticize the Jewish nation with his accusation of their "hi-jacking" but surely and prayerfully he was not suggesting that if they "hi-jacked" a word that the Holocaust never happened? If so, that is quite the leap.

Just for fun I looked up a few words that have also evolved over time; which is referred to as semantic change or semantic shift (it's a real occurrence - not a "hijacking).

Awful - originally meant "inspiring wonder" a shortening of "full of awe." Now its use has a negative meaning.

Demagogue - originally meant "a popular leader" now the word has a connotation of a politician who panders to emotions and prejudice.

Egregious - originally meant something that was remarkably good. Now it is the total opposite; something remarkably bad.

Gay - no explanation needed there.

My mother (91) recently plopped down on the couch after her morning walk and said "I am so fagged out." I shared gently that we don't really say that anymore (as if anyone ever did but maybe my mom and dad.)

TAMI HEATHER

Clark Fork