HAPPINES.

No, that’s not a typo, it means ‘become rich’ in Hittite, and caelestis at Sauvage Noble has a delightful post on why it’s his favorite Hittite word; read the whole thing if you enjoy Indo-European puns.

Comments

  1. The poor guy. I know how he feels. I occasionally come up with three-language puns which I realize I’ll never get to use in conversation. That’s what happened to James Joyce, I guess.

  2. It’s may be only an urban legend, but here’s a version of a relevant anecdote that’s apparently told of various people:
    When Charles deGaulle decided to retire from public life, the American ambassador and his wife threw a gala dinner party in his honor. At the dinner table the Ambassador’s wife was talking with Madame deGaulle.
    “Your husband has been such a prominent public figure, such a presence on the French and International scene for so many years! How quiet retirement will seem in comparison. What are you most looking forward to in these retirement years?”
    “A penis,” replied Madame de Gaulle.
    A huge hush fell over the table. Everyone heard her answer . . . and no one knew what to say next.
    Finally, Le Grand Charles leaned over to his wife and said, “Ma cherie, I believe zee Americans pronounce zat word ‘appiness.'”

  3. Lars Mathiesen says
  4. Thanks, I’ve updated the post (and enjoyed the de Gaulle story all over again)!

Speak Your Mind

*