Q is for Quizzical

QUIZZICAL

1. Suggesting puzzlement; questioning.
2. Teasing; mocking.
3. Eccentric; odd.

The definition I prefer: questioning and mocking or supercilious a quizzical look.

I read a lot of book in english and I take notes of words that I find interesting, hoping I might use them in a future story. QUIZZICAL is one of them. Actually it’s the only one I’ve been hanging on to for a few months and I’ve been seeing it a lot lately. It even got me thinking that there was a challenge of some sort between indie writers to put the word quizzical as much as they could in their novels.

The word is maybe not that hot, but it’s been a while since I stumbled unto a word that I didn’t know. In french, I do the crosswords so I have plenty of opportunities to learn new words.

The only thing is, I won’t be able to use it in an everyday conversation. I was an interpreter (french/english) for many years and this is the kind of word I secretly wish to use out loud. But no… never came up. And the translation in french, it’s also a word we use mainly in writing, otherwise you look weird or snobish.

A note on Dr. House up here, that character is the embodiment of quizzical: look and attitudes. I just love him!

QUIXOTIC is also another one of my favorite. A derivative of the name Don Quixote (you know that guy, a character created by Cervantes). Quixotic which means: preoccupied with an unrealistically optimistic or chivalrous approach to life; impractically idealistic.

1. Caught up in the romance of noble deeds and the pursuit of unreachable goals; idealistic without regard to practicality.

2. Capricious; impulsive

Imagine the fun now when you write, you just want to put those words everywhere!!! I know, sometimes I get over excited with silly things… but I love words!

With great respect!

A.