Monday, June 21, 2010

Quebec bans 'weathervane' insult

"Quebec bans 'weathervane' insult

In a bold move to protect the democratic process and stand up for the forces of justice, Quebec's legislature has banned its politicians from using the word 'weathervane', on the grounds that it is 'hurtful'."

weathercock
PRONUNCIATION:(WETH-uhr kok)
MEANING:noun:1. A weathervane, especially one with the figure of a rooster on it.
2. One who changes readily or often.

ETYMOLOGY:From weather + cock.

NOTES:The words weathercock/weathervane are especially suitable for politicians who change according to prevailing winds. Quebec's legislature has gone so far as to impose a ban on their use.
USAGE:"William was such a weathercock, how could one be sure?"Barbara W. Tuchman; The Guns of August; Random House; 1962

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