skunked term

English

Etymology

Coined by lexicographer Bryan A. Garner, and since adopted by some other style guides.

Noun

skunked term (plural skunked terms)

  1. A word that becomes difficult to use because it is transitioning from one meaning to another. Purists may insist on the old usage, while descriptivists are more open to newer usages.
    • 2000, Bryan A. Garner, “lady”, in The Oxford Dictionary of American Usage and Style, page 206:
      It isn't a skunked term, but it's gradually becoming something like one.
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