New words – 11 November 2013

the Slow Web noun internet technology designed to make users feel calm

This is the question motivating the embryonic movement known variously as ‘calming technology’, ‘the slow web’, ‘conscious computing’ or (Pang’s preferred term) ‘contemplative computing’.

[The Guardian (UK broadsheet) 11.05.13]

I won’t lie and say it’s due to a conscious effort to spend less time on the internet on my part, or some participation in the slow web movement.

[shesinvogue.blogspot.com 16 April 2013]

WikiCell noun a type of edible food packaging

WikiCell ice cream and frozen yogurt will make their debut at US grocery stores later this month.

[Smithsonian (US history and culture magazine) June 2013]

zenware noun software designed to have a calming effect

Their inventions so far include […] scores of pieces of ‘zenware’ designed to block distractions, with names such as Isolator and StayFocusd and Shroud and Turn Off The Lights.

[The Guardian (UK broadsheet) 11 May 2013]

naysayer noun someone who refuses to accept a belief or opinion that is held by most other people

But how many storms, how many scientists weighing in, how much new information will it take to — at a minimum — convince the editors that permitting naysayers to have a voice for “balance” is not just factually wrong but also flat-out immoral?

[Washington Post (US broadsheet) 24 May 2013]

yolo abbreviation abbreviation for “you only live once” (used to justify doing something that is expensive or not sensible, or to encourage someone to do something)

The Jenners on the other hand, were totally living the YOLO life. Those crazy kids were cliff jumping, waterskiing, and doing some crazy fun looking wind surfing thing.

[www.crushable.com 29 July 2013]

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5 thoughts on “New words – 11 November 2013

  1. Pingback: (EN) – New words: 11 November 2013 | Cambridge University Press | Glossarissimo!

  2. “Naysayer” has been around for years on the Western shores of the Atlantic. I can’t give a specific citation, but I’m sure I heard the term as a university student 40 years ago.

  3. llama1978

    I invented a new word / phrase, the “dick flick”, kind of opposite of “chick flick” where there is one, usually American, hero running around saving the world from whatever disaster is in progress…

    1. Well, there’s a more elegant phrase for print media serving the same audience “Lad magazines.” In terms of film and video games, I think you are talking about “super-hero” titles. Your coinage is clever, but not necessary.

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