The Weirdest English Words That Actually Exist

theloungehn
2 ene
2 Min. de lectura

English is full of surprises. Just when you think you’ve mastered its nuances, you stumble upon words so strange they make you question reality. Words like “flibbertigibbet” or “snollygoster” aren’t just random noises—they’re legitimate entries in the English language. Ready for a trip down the rabbit hole of English eccentricities? Buckle up.

1. Flibbertigibbet

This tongue-twister means a frivolous or flighty person, often someone who talks a lot without saying much. Imagine a friend who narrates their entire grocery list—flibbertigibbet.

2. Absquatulate

No, it’s not a sneeze. It’s an old-fashioned term meaning to leave suddenly or flee. Next time you ghost a party, tell your friends you “absquatulated.” Fancy, right?

3. Snollygoster

If you think politicians can be sketchy, this word might resonate with you. A snollygoster is someone who’s clever but lacks integrity. It’s a perfect insult wrapped in sophistication.

4. Widdershins

This whimsical word means to move counterclockwise or in a direction opposite to the norm. Want to freak people out? Walk widdershins around your kitchen table and see who notices.

5. Gubbins

It sounds like a dish from Harry Potter, but it actually means odds and ends or something useless. That drawer full of random cables you’ll “definitely need someday”? Pure gubbins.

6. Callipygian

A word that’s a bit cheeky—literally. Callipygian describes someone with well-shaped buttocks. Use it sparingly unless you’re a poet.

7. Borborygmus

Ever had your stomach growl loudly in a quiet room? That sound is borborygmus. Fancy name for a not-so-fancy situation.

8. Discombobulate

If you’re feeling confused or disoriented, you’re officially discombobulated. Bonus: saying it out loud might actually make you feel better.

9. Lollygag

This word means to dawdle or waste time. The next time your roommate spends an hour scrolling TikTok, accuse them of lollygagging.

10. Skedaddle

A delightful way to say “get out of here!” It’s what you’d yell at a group of raccoons invading your picnic.

Why Does English Have Such Weird Words?

Blame history. English borrows heavily from Latin, French, Old Norse, and German, creating a melting pot of oddities. These strange words often stick around because they’re fun to say, they fill a unique need, or they evoke a specific vibe.

Take “flummox,” for example—it feels just as confusing as it means. And “whippersnapper”? It’s impossible to use without a mischievous smile.

How to Use Weird Words Without Sounding... Weird

Know your audience: While “borborygmus” is hilarious, your boss might not appreciate it in a report.
Sprinkle them sparingly: Weird words are like hot sauce—great in moderation.
Be ready to explain: If you’re dropping “snollygoster” into conversation, be prepared for curious looks.

Fun Challenge: Make These Words Yours

Try using one weird English word every day this week. Whether you call your clutter “gubbins” or absquatulate from a boring meeting, these words are sure to make life more interesting.

Language is supposed to be fun, and English proves that with its treasure trove of quirky vocabulary. Embrace the weird, the wacky, and the downright wonderful—it’s what makes English so endlessly fascinating.

And if you're ready to learn more about unique English quirks, why not book a class with Lounge? You’ll not only improve your language skills but also support kids in Honduras through our social initiatives.

Now, go skedaddle and practice some new vocabulary!