We’re on a linguistic roll here at dewconsulting.net/blog and only the good Lord knows why. Today’s Word of the Day is “shot-clog.” Whaaaaat? Yes, your ears do not deceive you. This term means “a bore tolerated only because he or she pays the shot.”
The “shot” part refers to a charge to be paid. It’s a cousin to, and synonymous with, scot, a word likely only familiar to modern speakers in the term scot-free, meaning “completely free from obligation, harm, or penalty.”
The origin of the “clog” part is less clear. Perhaps it’s meant to draw a parallel between a substance that impedes a pipe’s flow and a person who impedes a good time. Or perhaps companions’ tabs accumulate as so much dross in a clogged pipe. Meanwhile the shot-clog yammers on unawares…. The word is no longer in regular use. But it might work for you as a suitable old-time insult for that person in your party who is fine to have around – just so long as they pick up the tab.
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So, there you have it, shot-clog: Because it’s always good to have an extra old-time insult at your disposal, especially when you’re out partying and on a limited budget.
Cliff Clavin on why beer is good for you:
Well, you see, it’s like this. A herd of buffalo can only move as fast as the slowest buffalo. And when the herd is hunted, it’s the slowest and weakest ones at the back that are killed first. This natural selection is good for the herd as a whole, because the general speed and health of the whole group keeps improving by the regular killing of the weakest members. In much the same way, the human brain can only operate as fast as the slowest brain cells. Now, as we know, excessive intake of alcohol kills brain cells. But naturally, it attacks the slowest and weakest brain cells first. In this way, regular consumption of beer eliminates the weaker brain cells, making the brain a faster and more efficient machine. And that’s why you always feel smarter after a few beers.