zobnoun
Factsheet
What does the noun zob mean?
There is one meaning in OED's entry for the noun zob. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definition, usage, and quotation evidence.
This word is used in U.S. English.
Entry status
OED is undergoing a continuous programme of revision to modernize and improve definitions. This entry has not yet been fully revised.
How common is the noun zob?
| 1910 | 0.0016 |
| 1920 | 0.0018 |
| 1930 | 0.002 |
| 1940 | 0.003 |
| 1950 | 0.0042 |
| 1960 | 0.0056 |
| 1970 | 0.0061 |
| 1980 | 0.0065 |
| 1990 | 0.0072 |
| 2000 | 0.008 |
| 2010 | 0.0077 |
How is the noun zob pronounced?
British English
Where does the noun zob come from?
Earliest known use
1910s
The earliest known use of the noun zob is in the 1910s.
OED's earliest evidence for zob is from 1911, in the writing of W. F. Kirk.
zob is of unknown origin.
Nearby entries
- zoantharian, adj. & n.1887–
- zoanthid, n.1870–
- zoanthidan, adj.1888–
- zoanthodeme, n.1877–
- zoanthoid, adj.1854–
- zoanthropic, adj.1891–
- zoanthropy, n.1856–
- zoanthus, n.1841–
- zoarial, adj.1896–
- zoarium, n.1880–
- zob, n.1911–
- zocalo, n.1884–
- zocco, n.1664–1723
- zocle, n.1704–
- zoco, n.1892–
- zodiac, n.1390–
- zodiacal, adj.1576–
- zodiac line, n.1590
- zodiac ring, n.1895–
- zodiographer, n.1650
- zoea, n.1828–
Etymology
Summary
Meaning & use
- 1911–A weak or contemptible person; a fool.
- 1911
He came here in the early Spring with all the try-out mob Striving to bat like Wagner and to slide (spikes first) like Cobb. Some of the vets cried, ‘Bonehead!’ Others remarked, ‘Poor zob!’
W. F. Kirk, Right off Bat 13 - 1920
And the same thing goes for that crowd of crabs and snobs Down East, and next time you hear some zob from Yahooville-on-the-Hudson chewing the rag..you tell him that no..Westerner would have New York for a gift!
S. Lewis, Main Street xxxv. 416 - 1922
I don't know how you fellows feel about prohibition, but the way it strikes me is that it's a mighty beneficial thing for the poor zob that hasn't got any will~power but for fellows like us, it's an infringement of personal liberty.
S. Lewis, Babbitt x. 140 - 1942
Terms of disparagement..yaphead, yazzihamper, zob.
L. V. Berrey & M. Van den Bark, American Thesaurus of Slang §396
the mind operation of the mind lack of understanding stupid, foolish, or confused person foolish person, fool [nouns]- dizzyOld English–1225absol. A foolish man, a fool. Obsolete.
- cang?c1225A fool.
- foolc1225–A person whose behaviour suggests a lack of intelligence, common sense, or good judgement; a silly person, an idiot; (now often) a person who acts… A common word in all periods from Middle English onwards, but apparently especially from the 16th to the early 18th centuries; compare, e.g., the productivity in phrasal and compound use during this period (see Phrases, compounds C.1). The word seems to have always carried some level of depreciative sentiment beyond simple description, but this depreciative aspect becomes increasingly mild in modern use in comparison with other synonymous or closely related terms.
- apec1330–1740transferred. A fool. Cf. God's ape, n. to make (a person) one's ape, to put an ape in a person's hood, to befool or dupe a person. Obsolete.
- mopc1330–1475A fool, a simpleton. Cf. mope, n. 1.
- saddle-goosec1346–1529(A nickname for) a fool.
- mis-feelinga1382A foolish or senseless person.
- foltc1390–1579A foolish person; a fool.
- mopec1390–A fool, a simpleton; a slow-witted or inept person. Cf. mop, n.¹ 1. Now chiefly U.S.
- fona1400–1595A foolish or gullible person.
- buffardc1430? A foolish fellow. Cf. buffer, n.⁴
- fopc1440–1716A foolish person, a fool. Obsolete.
- joppec1440A fool.
- fonda1450–1595A foolish person, a fool. Obsolete.
- fondlinga1450–1862A foolish person. Also in extended use of an animal. In later use English regional (northern). Obsolete.
- insipienta1513–1635An unwise or foolish person. Obsolete.
- plume of feathers1530–An ornamental feather, bunch of feathers, tuft of horsehair, or the like, esp. as worn for ceremonial purposes, as an attachment to a helmet or other…
- bobolynec1540A fool, a gaby.
- dizzard1546–1886A foolish fellow, idiot, blockhead.
- Little Witham?1548–Little (or small) Witham: (used proverbially, with pun on wit, n., for) a place of which the inhabitants were remarkable for stupidity. Hence…
- Jack monkeya1563–1856A person likened to a monkey; a foolish or silly person.
- nodc1563–1656A fool, a simpleton; = noddy, n.¹ 1.
- dawkin1565–a. A fool; b. a slattern.
- cocknel1566Apparently: a fool. Cf. cokes, n.
- nigion1570= nidget, n.¹
- niddicock1577–1654A fool, an idiot.
- nodcock1577–A fool; a simpleton.
- cuckoo1581–Applied to a person; esp. in reference to the bird's monotonous call, or its habit of laying its eggs in the nests of other birds; also = fool…
- Phrases: a feather in the cap, hat: a decoration, mark of honour, literal and figurative (also elliptical); also †the badge of a fool; hence †Jack w…
- niddipol1582= noddypoll, n.
- noddyship?1589A mock title for a fool.
- stirkc1590–Used as a term of abuse: a foolish person.
- fonkin1591A little fool.
- Gibraltar1593–1608(In corrupted forms gibaltar, giberaltar). ? A Gibraltar-monkey. Obsolete.
- fopper1598= fop, n. 1.
- noddypeak1598–1694A fool, a simpleton.
- John Dringle1599–1600(Perhaps) a fool, a simpleton.
- coxcombry1600–08A foolish person. Also: fools collectively (cf. sense 2c). Cf. coxcomb, n. 4a. Obsolete.
- simple1600–1894As a count noun. A stupid, ignorant, or foolish person. Obsolete.
- gowka1605–A fool: a half-witted person.
- nup1607A fool.
- fooliaminy1608–22A fool.
- silly ass1608–a. n. A foolish or stupid person (cf. ass, n.¹ 2); spec. an amiable upper-class idiot; b. adj. characteristic of, or designating, such a person.
- dosser-head1612A foolish person.
- dor1616A fool.
- glow-worm1624–figurative. (In 17th cent. often applied contemptuously to persons.)
- liripipea1625–1777A silly person. Obsolete.
- doodle1629–A silly or foolish fellow; a noodle.
- weak-wit1635–A person lacking or inferior in intellectual power, ability, or acuity; a fool.
- sop1637–transferred and figurative. A dull or foolish fellow; a milksop.
- spalt1639A silly or foolish person.
- fool's head1650–1891A foolish, silly, or stupid person. Obsolete.
- buffle1655–1710A fool; = bufflehead, n. 1.
- Jack Adams1656–(A generic name for) a fool, an idiot.
- bufflehead1659–A fool, blockhead, stupid fellow.
- nincompoopc1668–A simpleton, a foolish person.
- bavian1678–A baboon; spec. (South African) the chacma, Papio ursinus. Also figurative. derogatory: a fool, an idiot. Cf. babion, n. Now rare.
- nokes1679–A fool, a simpleton.
- foolanea1681A foolish or stupid person; a fool. Cf. foolatum, n.
- Tom doodle1698–1866A clown, a fool; a stupid or foolish person, an oaf; cf. doodle, n. 1.
- cod1699–A fool. Formerly also occasionally as a more general term of abuse.
- hulver-head1699–(See quot.).
- nigmenog1699–A fool, an idiot.
- single ten1699The ten of a card-suit; (see also quot. 1699).
- mud1703–1886colloquial. A fool, a simpleton. Obsolete.
- dowf1722–A dull, spiritless, foolish, or stupid person. Now rare.
- foolatum1740–1832A foolish or stupid person; a fool. Cf. earlier foolane, n.
- silly billy1749–A feeble-minded person, a fool; (now in weakened sense, esp. as an affectionate term of reproof) a silly or somewhat foolish person.
- tommy noddy1774–A foolish or stupid person. Cf. Tomnoddy, n. 2. Now rare.
- arsec1785–A stupid, unpleasant, or contemptible person; a fool.
- nincom1800–= nincompoop, n.
- silly1807–colloquial. A silly or foolish person. Also as a gently mocking or teasing form of address.
- slob1810–Originally Irish English; later U.S. slang and colloquial. A foolish, weak, or ineffectual person, esp. one who is gullible or easily imposed upon…
- omadhaun1818–A foolish or stupid person. Occasionally also (offensive) a person with a mild intellectual disability.
- potwalloper1820–derogatory. A fool. Also: an impostor, an upstart.
- mosy1824–regional (now chiefly Irish English). An idiot, a fool.
- amadan1825–A foolish or stupid person. Occasionally also (offensive) a person with a mild intellectual disability. Cf. omadhaun, n.
- gump1825–A foolish person, a dolt.
- gumpus1825–= gump, n.¹
- gype1825–A fool, an idiot.
- oonchook1825–Irish English and Newfoundland (colloquial and derogatory). A foolish, ignorant person, esp. a female one; a dunce.
- prawn1845–figurative and in extended use. A person likened to a prawn in appearance or character, esp. in being foolish or foolish-looking.
- foo-foo1848–derogatory. An ineffectual, feeble, or foolish person; (also) a man characterized as exhibiting qualities or behaviour regarded as more appropriate…
- suck-egg1851–(a) An animal that is reputed to suck eggs, e.g. a weasel, cuckoo; figurative an avaricious person. (b) A young fellow; slang. ‘a silly person’…
- goosey1852–A childish or playful diminutive of goose, n., applied to persons.
- nowmun1854–A fool, an idiot.
- pelican1856–U.S. colloquial. A worthless person; a fool, an oaf. Frequently with old.
- damfool1857–A foolish or stupid person; an idiot. Also in extended use: a foolish thing or affair.
- poppy-show1860–U.S. regional and Caribbean. A ridiculous or ostentatious display; foolishness, nonsense; (also) a fool, a figure of fun.
- buggerlugs1861–Chiefly humorous. An annoying or foolish person. Usually as an affectionate form of address or mild term of reproof. Occasionally in singular. Now…
- apeth1862–A foolish or silly person.
- mudhead1882–slang. derogatory. A stupid person; = blockhead, n. A.1.
- yob1886–Chiefly Australian, New Zealand (disparaging). A fool; a naive, gullible, or unintelligent person. Also: an unsophisticated person; a country…
- peanut head1891–A stupid or foolish person; also as a term of abuse. Cf. pinhead, n. A.4a, pea-brain, n., etc.
- haggis bag1892–disparaging. In Scottish usage: a lazy, foolish, or ineffectual person; a windbag. Also in other varieties of English: a Scottish person. Cf. haggis…
- poop1893–A stupid or ineffectual person; a fool, a bore.
- gook1904–A stupid, annoying, or peculiar person; spec. †(a) a person who offers unsolicited advice or opinions, a know-all (obsolete); (b) (now chiefly) a… Now somewhat uncommon, perhaps due to the possibility of confusion with the derogatory and offensive gook, n.²
- gazob1906–A fool; a blunderer.
- mush1906–A weak-minded person; a fool, an idiot.
- wump1908–A foolish or feeble person.
- zob1911–A weak or contemptible person; a fool.
- gorm1912–An undiscerning person, a fool.
- goof1916–A silly, stupid, or ‘daft’ person.
- goofus1916–A foolish or stupid person. Cf. doofus, n.
- gubbins1916–colloquial. A fool, a duffer.
- dumb-dumb1919–A stupid or foolish person; an idiot.
- dumb bunny1921–A foolish or stupid person.
- dumb cluck1922–A stupid or inept person; an idiot.
- dumb Dora1922–(A name for) a foolish or unintelligent person; esp. a foolish or unintelligent woman.
- B.F.1925–Bloody fool.
- goofer1925–One who goofs (in various senses).
- bird brain1926–A foolish or unintelligent person.
- berk1929–An incompetent, objectionable, or annoying person; a pillock. Frequently as a term of abuse, formerly as a euphemism for cunt, n. 3 (obsolete). In early use often considered coarse and offensive; now only mildly derogatory.
- Berkeley1929–An incompetent, objectionable, or annoying person. Frequently as a term of abuse, as a euphemism for cunt, n. 3.
- Berkeley Hunt1929–An incompetent, objectionable, or annoying person; = cunt, n. 3.
- ding1929–An inept or simple-minded person; a fool, an idiot. Also (chiefly Prison slang): a person regarded as being wildly irrational or erratic. Cf. ding-a…
- loogan1929–In derogatory use: a fellow, a ‘fool’.
- stupido1929–Originally and chiefly in Italian-speaking contexts: a stupid person. Also used as a contemptuous form of address.
- twat1929–As a term of abuse: a contemptible or obnoxious person; a person who behaves stupidly; a fool, an idiot. Now chiefly British. The force of this term can vary widely. Especially when applied to a woman, it can be as derogatory and offensive as the term cunt (cunt, n. 2a), but it can also be used (especially of men) as a milder form of abuse without conscious reference to the female genitals, often implying that a person's behaviour, appearance, etc., is stupid or idiotic, with little or no greater force than twit (twit, n.¹ 2b).
- poop-stick1930–A fool, an ineffectual person.
- tonk1930–Australian and New Zealand. disparaging. Originally: an overprivileged person. Later as a more general term of abuse: a contemptible or obnoxious…
- nelly1931–colloquial. derogatory. A man characterized as unmanly, or as exhibiting qualities, behaviour, or interests regarded as more appropriate to a…
- droop1932–A fool; a languid person; a ‘drip’. U.S. slang.
- diddy1933–Chiefly Scottish. A fool, an idiot.
- slappy1937–= slap-happy, adj. Also as n.
- dipsy-doodle1938–A foolish, unintelligent, or muddle-headed person. Also: a foolish or frivolous thought, statement, etc. Cf. doodle, n. 1.
- goof ball1938–a. (A tablet of) any of various drugs, spec. marijuana; a barbiturate tablet or drug; b. = goof, n. a.
- get1940–colloquial. A fool, an idiot; a contemptible person. Cf. git, n.
- poon1940–slang (chiefly Australian). derogatory. A simple or foolish person; (also) a person who lives alone in the outback.
- clot1942–colloquial. A dull-witted, clumsy, or blundering person. In later use often as a mild or affectionate term of reproach. Cf. clod, n. 5.
- yuck1943–A fool; a boor; anyone disliked or despised.
- possum1945–slang (usually derogatory). Australian. A fool, a simpleton, a gull. Now rare.
- gobdaw1947–slang. derogatory (originally and chiefly Irish English). A foolish or pretentious person.
- momo1953–An idiot; a stupid person.
- nig-nog1953–slang (usually mildly derogatory). A new or unskilled recruit; a novice; a foolish or naive person. Cf. ning-nong, n.
- plonker1955–slang (chiefly British and Australian). A foolish, inept, or contemptible person.
- weenie1956–A person held in contempt, esp. one ridiculed as weak, socially inept, or unfashionable; a fool; = wiener, n. 3. Also used as a general term of abuse.
- nong-nong1959–= nong, n. 2.
- Berkshire Hunt1960–An incompetent, objectionable, or annoying person; a berk. Also used as a term of abuse for a man, as a euphemism for cunt, n. 3. Cf. Berkeley Hunt…
- balloon1965–colloquial (Scottish and Irish English (northern)). A self-important or boastful idiot; a fool. Cf. loon, n.¹
- doofus1965–A foolish or stupid person, an idiot; also as a general term of contempt. Cf. goofus, n.¹
- dork1965–A foolish, pathetic, or inept person, spec. a person (esp. a student) ridiculed as socially awkward, unfashionable, overly studious, or odd. Now…
- nana1965–A foolish or silly person; an idiot.
- jive turkey1966–A dishonest, insincere, or foolish person; also as a general term of abuse or disparagement.
- shit-for-brains1966–coarse slang (originally U.S.). An extremely stupid or foolish person. Frequently used as a form of address.
- schmoll1967–An idiot, a fool.
- tosspot1967–slang (chiefly British and Australian). A contemptible person, a fool. Cf. tosser, n. 1b.
- lunchbox1969–U.S. slang (esp. College slang). A fool, simpleton; an inept person. Cf. out to lunch at lunch, n.² 2b.
- doof1971–= doofus, n.
- tonto1973–Someone who is foolish or stupid.
- lamester1978–slang (originally U.S.). A dull, unimpressive, or contemptible person; a person regarded as socially inept or out of touch. Cf. lame, adj. A.II.8.
- dorkus1979–A foolish, clumsy, or inept person; a dork (dork, n. 2). Now also: one whose social awkwardness is regarded as endearing. Frequently as a form of…
- motorhead1979–An idiot, a fool.
- mouth-breather1979–North American slang. A stupid person.
- wally1980–Chiefly British. A silly, daft, or inept person; a fool, an idiot. Mildly derogatory.
- wally brain1981–Mildly derogatory. slang. A fool, an idiot; = wally, n.³ A.2.
- der-brain1983–A stupid person, a fool.
- langer1983–coarse slang (Irish English). The penis. Also: a fool, an idiot.
- numpty1985–A stupid or foolish person; an idiot.
- sotong1988–Used to denote a stereotypically stupid, clumsy, or ignorant person, esp. in blur as (a) sotong, blur like (a) sotong. Cf. blur, adj..
- fanny1995–slang (originally and chiefly Scottish). A stupid, incompetent, or annoying person; an idiot.
- fannybaws2000–A stupid, annoying, or unpleasant person. Frequently as a disparaging form of address. Cf. fanny, n.¹ 5.
the mind attention and judgement contempt condition of being held in contempt [nouns] state or quality of being contemptible contemptible person- thingOld English–Used of a human being or person. Cf. creature, n. 2a, 2c. Without qualification. In later use only in contempt or reproach, usually suggesting…
- wormOld English–figurative. A human being likened to a worm or reptile as an object of contempt, scorn, or pity; an abject, miserable creature.
- wretchOld English–A vile, sorry, or despicable person; one of opprobrious or reprehensible character; a mean or contemptible creature. Also without article.
- hinderlingc1175–1387A base, mean, contemptible person.
- harlot?c1225–1659Originally: a beggar, a vagabond. Later: a dishonest or unprincipled person; a scoundrel, a rogue (frequently as a term of abuse). Also occasionally…
- mixa1300–1400A wretch; a vile person; a fool.
- villain1303–Originally, a low-born base-minded rustic; a man of ignoble ideas or instincts; in later use, an… Used as a term of opprobrious address.
- whelpc1330–An ill-conditioned or low fellow; later, in milder use, and esp. of a boy or young man: A saucy or impertinent young fellow; an ‘unlicked cub’, a…
- wonnera1340–A dweller, an inhabitant.
- filtha1375–As a term of abuse: a disgusting, repugnant, immoral, or contemptible person. Later usually as a mass noun with singular or plural reference.
- dead doga1382–A worthless or contemptible person; cf. dog, n.¹ II.5a.
- bismera1400–1535A person worthy of scorn; a lewd person, a pander or bawd. Cf. besom, n. 6.
- funk?a1400Apparently: a worthless or contemptible person or thing. not worth a funk: of little or no value, worthless.
- vilec1400–1530A base or despicable person. Obsolete.
- beasta1425–A person who exhibits base, licentious, or indulgent behaviour; a person regarded as animal-like in lacking self-control or rational thought.
- creaturec1450–A human being; a person, an individual. A reprehensible or despicable person.
- dog bolt1465–Usually in form dogbolt. As a term of contempt or abuse: (probably originally) a person who is at someone else's command, a menial, a dogsbody…
- fouling?a1475A wicked or immoral person. Obsolete.
- drivel1478–1600A person lacking in intelligence; a fool, an imbecile.
- shit1508–An offensive or despicable person (usually a man); a person (usually a man) whose behaviour is regarded as obnoxious.
- marmoset1523–Extended uses. Applied to a man (derogatory or disparaging). Occasionally: a favourite, a minion. Now rare.
- mammeta1529–derogatory and offensive. A despised person, esp. one considered to have no strength of character; (also) a timid or oversensitive person…
- pilgarlica1529–Originally: a bald head; a bald-headed person. In later use also: a pitiable, lowly, or foolish person; a shabby or unkempt person. Frequently used…
- pode1528A toad; = pad, n.¹ 1; (also) any of various other creatures reputed to be venomous. Also in extended use: a vile person.
- slave1530–1819As a term of contempt: a despicable person; a wretch. Obsolete (archaic in later use).
- slim1548–1611A lanky, lazy, worthless, or despicable person. Obsolete.
- skit-brains?1553–attributive and in other combinations, as skit-brains, skit-brained, in opprobrious use.
- grasshopper1556–disparaging. A person likened to a grasshopper, esp. in being destructive, inconstant, or (with allusion to the fable of the ant and the…
- scavenger1563–figurative in various uses: One who collects filth; one who does ‘dirty work’; a dishonourable person. Also, in favourable sense, one who labours…
- old boss1566old boss: a term of contempt applied to persons (Scottish). Cf. quot. 1554 at sense 1.
- rag1566–A disreputable or contemptible person; a person of a low social class. Cf. rag-tag, n. A.2, tag-rag, n. A.a. Now rare.
- shrub1566–1690A mean, inferior, insignificant person; = scrub, n.¹ II.5. Obsolete.
- ketterela1572–85A vile or filthy wretch.
- shake-rag1571–A ragged disreputable person; also attributive or adj., beggarly. Cf. shack-rag, n., shag-rag, adj. & n.
- skybala1572–A mean, disreputable, or contemptible person; a rascal, a rogue. Also: a worn-out, thin, or neglected person or animal; a worthless thing.
- mumpsimus1573–1815derogatory. An old person. Also: = mumps, n.¹ Obsolete.
- smatchetc1582–An insignificant contemptible person; a chit.
- squib1586–Applied to persons. A mean, insignificant, or paltry fellow; also, a short or thin person.
- dunghill craven1587–1908A common domestic fowl, as distinguished from a gamecock bred for fighting (cf. dunghill, n. compounds C.1b); (in extended use) a contemptible or…
- scabship1589Used with possessive as a mock title for a contemptible person.
- vassal1589–A base or abject person. Cf. slave, n. A.I.3b.
- stick-toad1591A person who stabs or pierces toads (used as a term of abuse).
- baboon1592–derogatory. A foolish, stupid, or contemptible person; (also) a person considered to resemble a baboon in appearance. Frequently as a term of abuse.
- Gibraltar1593–1608(In corrupted forms gibaltar, giberaltar). ? A Gibraltar-monkey. Obsolete.
- polecat1593–derogatory. A sexually promiscuous woman or (occasionally) man, a prostitute. In later use also as a more general term of abuse.
- mushroom1594–1769figurative. A contemptible person. Obsolete.
- nodc1595A person who is nodded at. Obsolete. rare.
- cittern-head1598–1640Used as a term of abuse, with reference to the grotesquely carved head of a cittern.
- nit1598–colloquial. Originally: an insignificant, inconsequential, or contemptible person. In later use chiefly: spec. a foolish, stupid, or incompetent…
- stockfish1598–In contemptuous address to a person.
- cum-twang1599An obsolete term of contempt.
- dish-wash1599–As a term of contempt.
- pettitoe1599–1657Usually in plural. derogatory. A vile or worthless person or thing. Obsolete.
- mustard-token1600–22A token issued and redeemed by a mustard seller in lieu of small change; also used as a term of contempt connoting worthlessness.
- viliaco1600–51A vile or contemptible person; a villain, scoundrel.
- cargo1602A contemptuous term applied to a person.
- stump1602–Applied to a person: A blockhead (cf. stock, n.¹ A.I.1c, stub, n. 2); a man of short stumpy figure (cf. stub, n. 7d). †Sometimes as a term of…
- snotty-nose1604–One whose nose is dirty with snot; hence, a paltry, mean, or contemptible fellow.
- sprat1605–Applied to a person. A person characterized as being small, weak, or insignificant. Frequently used dismissively or as a term of contempt. Cf. shrimp…
- wormling1605–A small worm; chiefly figurative, a poor despicable creature.
- brock1607–A stinking or dirty fellow; one who is given to ‘dirty tricks’; a ‘skunk’.
- dogfly?1611–31In extended use, as a term of abuse for a person. Obsolete. rare.
- shag-rag1611–A ragged, disreputable person; a low rascally fellow.
- shack-rag1612= shake-rag, n., shag-rag, adj. & n.
- thrum1612–1727Applied jocularly or contemptuously to a person (? one meanly or raggedly dressed). Obsolete.
- rabbita1616–Something resembling a rabbit. disparaging. A person likened to a rabbit, typically in being timid or ineffectual; (slang) a poor or novice player…
- fitchock1616–1847= fitchew, n.; also as a term of contempt.
- unworthy1616–An unworthy person.
- baseling1618–A base or degraded creature.
- shag1620–A low, rascally fellow.
- glow-worm1624–figurative. (In 17th cent. often applied contemptuously to persons.)
- snip1633–Applied to persons in depreciation or contempt. In later use: A young, slight, or diminutive person.
- the son of a worm1633–figurative. Similarly the son of a worm (after Job 17:14).
- grousea1637Used as a term of contempt. Obsolete. rare.
- shab1637–slang. A low fellow (= scab, n. 4). ? Obsolete.
- wormship1648–The personality of a worm. (With possess. pronoun, as a mock-title.)
- muckworm1649–derogatory. A person who is despicable, esp. one who is intellectually or morally deficient; a lowly person. Now rare.
- whiffler1659–A trifler; an insignificant or contemptible fellow (cf. whiffling, adj.¹ 3); also, a shifty or evasive person.
- prig1679–1749A term of dislike for an unpleasant or unsympathetic person. Obsolete.
- rotten egg1686–figurative. A worthless or contemptible person or thing. Cf. egg, n. 4a.
- prigster1688–1898An excessively precise or particular person; (also more generally) an objectionable person. Cf. prig, n.³ A.II.4.
- begged fool1693–See beg, v. 5.
- hang-dog1693–A despicable or degraded fellow fit only to hang a dog, or to be hanged like a dog.
- bugger1694–slang. Used as a term of abuse or contempt for a person.
- reptile1697–figurative. A person of mean, grovelling, or contemptible character; a loathsome or repulsive person.
- squinny1716–(See quot. 1852.)
- snool1718–A tame, abject, or mean-spirited person.
- ramscallion1734–A worthless, dirty, or disreputable person; a vagrant. Cf. rapscallion, n.
- footer1748–A contemptible, foolish, or clumsy person.
- jackass1756–A foolish or stupid person; an idiot, a dolt. Cf. ass, n.¹ 2. Now chiefly North American.
- hallion1789–A term of contempt: A low or scurvy fellow; an idle, worthless fellow.
- skite1790–A person who on some account or other is regarded with contempt. (Cf. blatherskite, n.)
- rattlesnake1791–figurative. A dangerous, malevolent, or despicable person or thing (also as a term of abuse). Also: a person who or thing which moves quickly or…
- snot1809–dialect and slang. Applied to persons as a term of contempt or opprobrium.
- mudworm1814–A contemptible person. Now rare.
- skunk1816–colloquial. Chiefly North American. A dishonest, mean, or contemptible person.
- stirrah1816–‘A term of contempt, apparently corrupted from Sirrah’ (Jamieson).
- spalpeen1817–As a term of contempt: a disreputable or untrustworthy person; a rogue, rascal.
- nyaff1825–A diminutive, insignificant, or contemptible person. Now frequently in wee nyaff.
- skin1825–An unpleasant or contemptible person; (U.S. slang) spec. = skinflint, n. Now rare.
- weed1825–colloquial. A person who is tall, thin, and lacking in physical strength or stamina; a feeble or weedy person, regarded as contemptible; a…
- tiger1827–49A vulgarly or obtrusively overdressed person; also a sponger, hanger-on, parasite; a roué, rake, swell-mobsman. slang. Obsolete.
- slobber-chops1832–As a general term of abuse or contempt: a stupid, contemptible, or ineffectual person. Now rare.
- beggar1834–As a term of contempt. Used familiarly or playfully. (Cf. baggage, n. A.II.6b, dog, n.¹ II.5b, rogue, n. A.3, etc.)
- despicability1837–A specimen of this; a despicable person.
- squirt1844–colloquial. A paltry or contemptible person; a whippersnapper; a fop. Also spec. a child or young person. Originally U.S.
- prawn1845–figurative and in extended use. A person likened to a prawn in appearance or character, esp. in being foolish or foolish-looking.
- shake1846–A disreputable person.
- white mouse1846–Chiefly Navy slang. A sly or contemptible person; an informer, a traitor. Now rare (historical in later use).
- scurf1851–slang. A contemptible person, esp. a miser, skinflint. Also spec., an employer who pays less than the usual rate of wages; a labourer who accepts…
- sweep1853–A disreputable person; a scamp, blackguard. slang and dialect.
- cockroach1856–colloquial (chiefly U.S.). A person who acts in a base, cunning, or underhand manner; a contemptible or despicable person. Frequently as a form of…
- bummer1857–slang (originally U.S.). derogatory. A worthless, lazy, or despicable person.
- medlar1859–slang. A dirty or disreputable person. Now rare.
- cunt1860–derogatory. As a term of abuse for a man.
- shuck1862–As a type of something valueless. A mean or contemptible person.
- missing link1863–colloquial. derogatory. Applied to a person, esp. one considered crude or stupid.
- skepsel1866–In early use often: a contemptible, worthless, or uncivilized person; (now chiefly) a helpless, unfortunate, or pitiable person. Also as a (usually… Often (esp. in 19th and earlier 20th cent.) used as a patronizing or derogatory term for a black or other non-white person.
- schweinhund1871–A despicable, troublesome, or unpleasant person. Often as an abusive form of address. Chiefly used where the speaker or referent is German. Cf. swin…
- creepa1876–†(a) A creeping fellow; a sneak. dialect. Obsolete. (b) slang (originally U.S.). A despicable, worthless, stupid, or tiresome person. Cf. creeper, n.…
- cheapie1879–U.S. A contemptible or despicable person. Now rare.
- bum1882–derogatory. A worthless or contemptible person; a lazy or irresponsible person.
- trashbag1886–a. See quot. 1688; (also) old shoes; also, a disreputable or worthless person (dialect); b. chiefly U.S., a rubbish bag.
- tinhorn1887–A poor or contemptible person, esp. one who is pretentious or flashy; spec. one who gambles for low stakes.
- snot-rag1888–A pocket-handkerchief; also transferred as a term of opprobrium.
- rodent1889–derogatory. A despicable, contemptible, or worthless person. Cf. rat, n.¹ II.4a.
- whelpling1889–A young whelp; also contemptuously of a person.
- pie eatera1891–U.S. slang. derogatory. A contemptible person, a fool; a country bumpkin. Also: a person who accepts political favours (cf. pie, n.² II.4b, pie-biter…
- mess1891–colloquial. A person who is dirty or untidy in appearance; (figurative) a person whose life or affairs are disorganized, esp. due to the influence…
- schmuck1892–A contemptible or obnoxious person; a stupid or foolish person.
- fucker1893–coarse slang. A foolish or despicable person (cf. earlier windfucker, n. 2). Also more broadly: a person, a fellow.
- cheapskate1894–Usually as two words. A contemptible or despicable person. Now rare.
- cocksucker1894–coarse slang. A stupid or obnoxious person. Frequently as a contemptuous form of address.
- gutter-bird1896–The sparrow, hence figurative, a disreputable person.
- lickpot1896derogatory. A person who does menial work in a kitchen; (also more generally) a worthless, servile person; a lackey. Cf. lick-dish, n. 1. Obsolete.
- perisher1896–colloquial (chiefly British). An annoying or awkward person; (frequently in little perisher) an irritating or mischievous child. Hence: any annoying…
- skate1896–A mean or contemptible person. Esp. in cheapskate, n.
- schmendrick1897–A foolish, immature, or naive person; (also) an obnoxious person.
- nyamps1900–An incapable, worthless, or stupid person.
- ullage1901–transferred. Nautical. (See quots.)
- fink1903–A pejorative term of wide application, esp.: (a) an unpleasant or contemptible person; (b) an informer; a detective; (c) a strike-breaker.
- onion1904–slang (originally U.S.). A foolish or contemptible person; a ‘mug’. In British use originally and chiefly Services' slang.
- punk1904–U.S. slang. (a) A person of no account; a despicable or contemptible person; (broadly) a person, a fellow (rare) (b) a petty criminal; a hoodlum, a…
- shitepoke1905–= shit, n. A.I.2.
- tinhorn sport1906–A contemptible person.
- streeler1907–A disreputable, idle person.
- swine-dog1909–(A term of abuse or contempt for) an objectionable, troublesome, or unpleasant person; cf. schweinhund, n., swine-hound, n.
- zob1911–A weak or contemptible person; a fool.
- stink1916–A contemptible person, a stinkard. slang.
- motherfucker1918–coarse slang (originally and chiefly North American). With negative connotation. An obnoxious, despicable, or contemptible person; a very unpleasant person. Frequently as a term of abuse.
- Oscar1918–A fellow, guy (esp. one held in contempt by the speaker); a foolish or ignorant man.
- shitass1918–coarse slang (originally U.S.). A person regarded as contemptible, worthless, or inept.
- warb1921–A low-class, disreputable, or contemptible person; a lazy person; a loafer. Also (later chiefly Police slang): a person without a settled home; a…
- cheapjack1922–As a term of abuse: a contemptible person; an unscrupulous or dishonest person; (sometimes) a grasping or miserly person. Cf. cheap John, n. A.2.
- shit-face1923–coarse slang. A despicable or hated person.
- tripe-hound1923–a. An unpleasant or contemptible person; also spec. a newspaper reporter or an informant; b. a contemptuous term for a dog; spec. in Australian and N…
- gimp1924–derogatory slang (originally U.S.). A stupid, inept, or contemptible person.
- garbage can1925–colloquial. A worthless or despicable person; (also) a dirty or disgusting person.
- twerp1925–A despicable or objectionable person; an insignificant person, a nobody; a nincompoop.
- jughead1926–A foolish or stupid person; also, as a mere term of abuse.
- mong1926–In extended use: a despicable person. Cf. mongrel, n. A.II.5a.
- fuck?1927–coarse slang (see note at fuck, v.). Originally U.S. A worthless or despicable person. Frequently with modifying word. Cf. also rat fuck, n. (a).
- arsehole1928–A stupid, irritating, or despicable person; a person who behaves contemptibly. In early use with modifying adjective. Cf. asshole, n. 3, arse, n. A.3.
- dirty dog1928–A despicable or untrustworthy person; also with implication of lasciviousness.
- gazook1928–A fool; a stupid or unpleasant person.
- muzzler1928–U.S. slang. An obnoxious or annoying person; someone held in contempt.
- roach1929–slang. derogatory. An unpleasant or despicable person.
- shite1929–regional (chiefly Scottish and Irish English) and coarse slang (chiefly British, Australian, and New Zealand). = shit, n. A.I.2.
- mook1930–colloquial and derogatory (U.S. and Caribbean). An incompetent or stupid person; a contemptible person (esp. with reference to low social status).
- lug1931–Chiefly North American slang. Used contemptuously of a person: a lout, a sponger.
- slug1931–A contemptible person; a fat person.
- woodchuck1931–U.S. regional (New York) slang. An unsophisticated rustic; a yokel, a hick. Also used more generally as a term of mild contempt.
- crud1932–Chiefly U.S. An unpleasant or despicable person; also as a general term of abuse. Cf. crut, n.³
- dip1932–A stupid, unremarkable, or contemptible person.
- fart face1932–(A term of abuse for) a disagreeable or annoying person.
- bohunkus1933–A stupid, obnoxious, or worthless person. Often as a general term of abuse or contemptuous form of address. Cf. bohunk, n. A.2.
- lint-head1933–A worker in a cotton mill; (in contemptuous use) a person of whom one disapproves.
- fuck-piga1935–coarse slang. An unpleasant or contemptible person.
- owl-hoot1934–U.S. slang. In form owlhoot. Esp. in the language of Wild West fiction, etc.: a fugitive, an outlaw. Hence: a worthless or contemptible person…
- pissant1935–disparaging. An insignificant, contemptible, or irritating person.
- poot1935–disparaging. An insignificant or contemptible person.
- shmegegge1937–(A name for) a contemptible, idiotic, or foolish person.
- motheree1938–= motherfucker, n. 1a (see also mother, n.¹ I.7).
- motorcycle1938–U.S. slang (euphemistic). = motherfucker, n. 1. Usually modified by bad. Cf. also motor scooter, n. 3.
- squiff1939–A contemptible person.
- pendejo1940–A derogatory term for: a stupid, cowardly, or contemptible person (usually a man); an idiot, ‘asshole’, ‘jerk’. Also more mildly, as a term of…
- lame1941–U.S. colloquial (originally in African American usage). A person regarded as socially inept or out of touch, esp. considered from the perspective…
- snotnose1941–A term of contempt applied to a childish, despicable, or conceited person; = snotty-nose, n.
- jerkface1942–North American slang. derogatory. An irritating, despicable, or contemptible person. Chiefly as a term of abuse.
- slag1943–British colloquial. A worthless, insignificant, or contemptible person. In early use: a coward.
- yuck1943–A fool; a boor; anyone disliked or despised.
- fuckface?1945–coarse slang (originally U.S.). A foolish or contemptible person. Frequently as a term of abuse.
- fuckhead?1945–coarse slang (originally North American). A foolish or contemptible person.
- shit-head1945–coarse slang. A person regarded as stupid or despicable.
- shite-hawk1948–= shit, n. A.I.2.
- schlub1950–A worthless person, a fool, a loser, a jerk; an unkempt, slovenly, or plain-looking person.
- asswipe1953–derogatory. A foolish or contemptible person.
- MF1953–= motherfucker, n.
- mother1955–slang (originally and chiefly U.S.). = motherfucker, n. (in various senses).
- weenie1956–A person held in contempt, esp. one ridiculed as weak, socially inept, or unfashionable; a fool; = wiener, n. 3. Also used as a general term of abuse.
- hard-on1958–A stupid or contemptible person; (also) a difficult, tough, or aggressive person. Originally and frequently as a term of abuse.
- kuri1959–slang. A despicable or contemptible person. Frequently as an abusive form of address. Cf. dog, n.¹ II.5a, mongrel, n. A.II.5a.
- rass hole1959–coarse slang (chiefly Jamaican). = arsehole, n. 3.
- schmucko1959–A stupid or obnoxious person; = schmuck, n. Frequently as a disparaging form of address.
- bitch ass1961–coarse slang (originally and chiefly U.S.). A contemptible, despicable, or worthless person. Chiefly as a term of abuse.
- effer1961–slang. = fucker, n. 2.
- lamer1961–A dull, unimpressive, or contemptible person; a person regarded as socially inept or out of touch. Cf. lame, adj. A.II.8, lame, n.¹ 3.
- spastic1961–slang. offensive (usually derogatory or disparaging). A person who is uncoordinated, incompetent, or incapable; a fool, an idiot. Cf. spaz, n. 1.
- arsewipe1962–derogatory. A foolish or contemptible person. Cf. asswipe, n. 2, arsehole, n. 3.
- asshole1962–coarse slang (originally and chiefly North American). A stupid, irritating, or contemptible person; a person who behaves despicably. Cf. arsehole, n. 3, shithole, n. 2.
- butthole1962–A stupid, irritating, or contemptible person; a person who behaves badly. Cf. asshole, n. 3.
- cock1962–coarse slang. A stupid, contemptible, or annoying person (esp. a man or boy); esp. one whose behaviour is considered knowingly obnoxious…
- dipshit1963–coarse slang (originally U.S.). A stupid, inept, or contemptible person; an idiot.
- fist-fucker1963–derogatory. A man or boy who (habitually) masturbates. Also (in extended use): a contemptible person.
- motherfuck1964–U.S. coarse slang. = motherfucker, n. 1.
- dork1965–A foolish, pathetic, or inept person, spec. a person (esp. a student) ridiculed as socially awkward, unfashionable, overly studious, or odd. Now…
- jive turkey1966–A dishonest, insincere, or foolish person; also as a general term of abuse or disparagement.
- bumhole1967–A stupid, irritating, or contemptible person; a person who behaves despicably. Cf. arsehole, n. 3.
- mofo1967–= motherfucker, n.
- tosspot1967–slang (chiefly British and Australian). A contemptible person, a fool. Cf. tosser, n. 1b.
- crudball1968–An unpleasant or despicable person. Cf. crud, n.¹ A.2a.
- dipstick1968–slang (originally U.S.). A stupid or obnoxious person. Cf. dipshit, n.
- douche1968–slang (originally U.S.). A stupid, obnoxious, or contemptible person; a person who behaves despicably. Cf. douchebag, n. 2.
- frickface1968–(Chiefly as a derogatory form of address) a foolish or contemptible person; cf. fuckface, n.
- schlong1968–A foolish, incompetent, or contemptible person.
- fuckwit1969–coarse slang (originally Australian). A stupid or contemptible person; an idiot.
- rassclaat1969–coarse slang (originally and chiefly Jamaican). A despicable or contemptible person; frequently as a term of abuse. Also as int.
- ass1970–A person regarded as disagreeable, despicable, or contemptible. Cf. asshole, n. 3.
- wank1970–coarse slang (originally and chiefly British). An objectionable or contemptible person or (less commonly) thing. Cf. wanker, n. 1b.
- wiener1970–North American colloquial. A person held in contempt, esp. one ridiculed as weak, socially inept, or unfashionable; a fool. Also used as a…
- fecker1971–An undesirable, obnoxious, or contemptible person; = fucker, n. 2.
- wanker1971–coarse slang (originally British). A foolish, stupid, or inept person. Also used more generally as a term of contempt or abuse. Cf. wank, n. A.2.
- butt-fucker1972–coarse slang (originally and chiefly North American). A contemptible or despicable person (chiefly as a term of abuse).
- culo1972–slang (sometimes derogatory and potentially offensive). Typically in Spanish and Italian contexts: a person's buttocks; the bottom, the backside. Also: the anus; the rectum. Also: a stupid, irritating, or…
- slimeball1972–colloquial (originally U.S.). A person regarded as disgusting, sleazy, immoral, or otherwise contemptible.
- bloodclaat1973–coarse slang (originally and chiefly Jamaican). In various imprecatory uses. A despicable or contemptible person; frequently as a term of abuse. Cf. rassclaat, n., pussyclaat, n.
- dickbreath1973–An obnoxious or detestable person (esp. a male); often as an abusive form of address.
- fuckwad1974–coarse slang (originally U.S.). A contemptible person. Frequently as a term of abuse.
- mutha1974–= motherfucker, n. Cf. mother, n.¹ I.7.
- suck1974–Canadian slang. A worthless or contemptible person. Cf. suck, v. III.15f; suck-hole, n.
- cocksuck1977–coarse slang. A stupid, obnoxious, or contemptible person. Usually as a form of address or term of abuse.
- lame-o1977–A person regarded as socially inept or out of touch; a dull, unimpressive, or contemptible person. Cf. lamer, n., lame, n.¹ 3.
- Nimrod1977–North American slang. Usually with lower-case initial. A stupid or contemptible person; an idiot.
- tosser1977–A term of contempt or abuse for a person; a ‘jerk’. Cf. bugger, n.¹ 3a. slang.
- dickface1978–An obnoxious or detestable person (esp. a male); often as an abusive form of address.
- lamester1978–slang (originally U.S.). A dull, unimpressive, or contemptible person; a person regarded as socially inept or out of touch. Cf. lame, adj. A.II.8.
- shit cunt1979–coarse slang. British a despicable person.
- plank1981–British colloquial (mildly derogatory). A stupid or contemptible person. Cf. as thick as two planks at thick, adj. A.III.9b.
- sleazebag1981–A sordid, despicable person, esp. one considered morally reprehensible; also attributive or as adj.
- dweeb1982–A person held in contempt, esp. one ridiculed as studious, puny, or unfashionable; a fool. Cf. nerd, n.
- bumboclaat1983–coarse slang(originally and chiefly Jamaican). A despicable or contemptible person; frequently as a term of abuse. Also as int.
- dickwad1983–An obnoxious, detestable, or stupid person (esp. a male). Cf. jerkwad, n.
- scuzzbag1983–A contemptible or despicable person; also as a general term of abuse; cf. scumbag, n. 2.
- sleazeball1983–= sleazebag, n.; also attributive or as adj.
- butt-face1984–A term of abuse for: an unattractive, annoying, or contemptible person.
- dickweed1984–An obnoxious, detestable, or stupid person (esp. a male).
- sad case1985–A pathetic, socially inept, or otherwise contemptible person.
- saddie1985–A pathetic or contemptible person; = saddo, n.
- butt plug1986–colloquial and derogatory (chiefly North American). A stupid or contemptible person. Also used as an abusive form of address.
- dickass1988–slang (originally and chiefly U.S.). An obnoxious or idiotic person (esp. a male).
- jerkweed1988–An obnoxious, detestable, or stupid person (esp. a male). Often as a contemptuous form of address. Cf. dickweed, n., jerkwad, n.
- dick-sucker1989–coarse slang. A stupid or obnoxious person. Frequently as a contemptuous form of address. Cf. cocksucker, n. 2.
- microcephalic1989–colloquial and derogatory. A stupid or contemptible person.
- wankstain1990–A despicable or ineffectual person; often as an abusive form of address. Cf. shit stain, n. (b).
- dickbag1991–An obnoxious, detestable, or stupid person (esp. a male).
- sadster1992–A pathetic or contemptible person; = saddo, n.
- buttmunch1993–A stupid, obnoxious, or contemptible person. Frequently as a term of (mild) abuse.
- dickweasel1994–A duplicitous, obnoxious, or detestable person (esp. a male).
- fanny1995–slang (originally and chiefly Scottish). A stupid, incompetent, or annoying person; an idiot.
- jackhole1996–coarse slang (originally and chiefly U.S.). A stupid, irritating, or contemptible person; a person who behaves despicably. Cf. asshole, n. 3.
- fassyhole1997–coarse slang. Jamaican. A stupid, irritating, or contemptible person; a person who behaves despicably; also as a contemptuous form of address.
- asshat1998–A stupid or contemptible person.
- fannybaws2000–A stupid, annoying, or unpleasant person. Frequently as a disparaging form of address. Cf. fanny, n.¹ 5.
- fassy2002–coarse slang. A stupid, irritating, or contemptible person; a person who behaves despicably. Also as a contemptuous form of address. Cf. fassyhole, n.
the mind will decision irresolution or vacillation inconstancy [nouns] weakness of character or will person of weak character or will- mush-head1846–A person who is weak, ineffectual, or easily influenced.
- to be putty (also to be like putty) in a person's hands: to be easily influenced or manipulated by a person.
- invertebrate1869–figurative. As a term of contempt: a weak, insignificant, or despicable person; spec. one who lacks courage, vigour, resolve, or strength of…
- jellyfish1883–figurative. A person of ‘flabby’ character, or deficient in energy, steadfastness, or ‘backbone’.
- zob1911–A weak or contemptible person; a fool.
- akratic1913–An akratic person.
- Milquetoast1932–A timid, submissive, or ineffectual person, a milksop. Also †Mister Milquetoast.
- weakie1934–Originally U.S., now chiefly Australian. A person who is weak in constitution, character, or ability; a weakling. Also: something that is weak or…
Pronunciation
British English
Consonants
- ppea
- ttea
- kkey
- bbuy
- ddye
- ɡguy
- tʃchore
- dʒjay
- ffore
- θthaw
- ssore
- ʃshore
- vvee
- ðthee
- zzee
- ʒbeige
- xloch
- hhay
- llay
- ɬrhingyll
- rray
- wway
- jyore
- mmay
- nnay
- ŋsing
Some consonants can take the function of the vowel in unstressed syllables. Where necessary, a syllabic marker diacritic is used, hence
Vowels
- iːfleece
- ihappy
- ɪkit
- ɛdress
- atrap, bath
- ɑːstart, palm, bath
- ɒlot
- ɔːthought, force
- ʌstrut
- ʊfoot
- uːgoose
- əletter
- əːnurse
- ɪənear
- ɛːsquare
- ʊəcure
- eɪface
- ʌɪpride
- aʊmouth
- əʊgoat
- ɔɪvoice
- ãgratin
- ɒ̃salon
- ᵻ(/ɪ/-/ə/)
- ᵿ(/ʊ/-/ə/)
Other symbols
- The symbol ˈ at the beginning of a syllable indicates that that syllable is pronounced with primary stress.
- The symbol ˌ at the beginning of a syllable indicates that that syllable is pronounced with secondary stress.
- Round brackets ( ) in a transcription indicate that the symbol within the brackets is optional.
View the pronunciation model here.
Frequency
zob typically occurs fewer than 0.01 times per million words in modern written English.
zob is in frequency band 2, which contains words occurring between 0.001 and 0.01 times per million words in modern written English. More about OED's frequency bands
Frequency of zob, n., 1910–2010
* Occurrences per million words in written English
Historical frequency series are derived from Google Books Ngrams (version 2), a data set based on the Google Books corpus of several million books printed in English between 1500 and 2010.
The overall frequency for a given word is calculated by summing frequencies for the main form of the word, any plural or inflected forms, and any major spelling variations.
For sets of homographs (distinct entries that share the same word-form, e.g. mole, n.¹, mole, n.², mole, n.³, etc.), we have estimated the frequency of each homograph entry as a fraction of the total Ngrams frequency for the word-form. This may result in inaccuracies.
Smoothing has been applied to series for lower-frequency words, using a moving-average algorithm. This reduces short-term fluctuations, which may be produced by variability in the content of the Google Books corpus.
| Decade | Frequency per million words |
|---|---|
| 1910 | 0.0016 |
| 1920 | 0.0018 |
| 1930 | 0.002 |
| 1940 | 0.003 |
| 1950 | 0.0042 |
| 1960 | 0.0056 |
| 1970 | 0.0061 |
| 1980 | 0.0065 |
| 1990 | 0.0072 |
| 2000 | 0.008 |
| 2010 | 0.0077 |