Fanboy, malware and webinar but 3 of Merriam-Webster's new words for 2008

Alex Zaharov-Reutt
Wednesday, 09 July 2008 00:02

Opinion and Analysis

Pescatarian (1993): vegetarian whose diet includes fish.

Phytonutrient (1994): bioactive, plant-derived compound (as resveratrol) associated with positive health effects.

Pretexting (1992): presenting oneself as someone else to obtain private information.

Prosecco (1881): a dry Italian sparkling wine.

Racino (1995): racetrack at which slot machines are available for gamblers.

Soju (1978): a Korean vodka distilled from rice.

Subprime (1995) 1: having or being an interest rate that is higher than a prime rate and is extended especially to low-income borrowers; 2: extending or obtaining a subprime loan.

Supercross (1983): motorcycle race held in a stadium on a dirt track having hairpin turns and high jumps.

Texas Hold 'em (1995): Poker in which each player is dealt two cards face down and all players share five cards dealt face-up.

Webinar (1998): live, online educational presentation during which participating viewers can submit questions and comments.

Wing nut (1900): Slang: one who advocates extreme measures or changes; radical.