Unusual And Obscure English Words You Never Heard! Trivia Quiz

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| By Grace Tierney
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Grace Tierney
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1. Which famous military leader gave us the expression "turn a blind eye"?

Explanation

Nelson is the correct answer because the expression "turn a blind eye" is attributed to Admiral Horatio Nelson. It is said that during the Battle of Copenhagen in 1801, Nelson was ordered to stop his attack, but he allegedly turned his telescope to his blind eye and continued the assault, disregarding the command. This act has since been associated with the phrase "turn a blind eye" meaning to deliberately ignore or overlook something.

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About This Quiz
Unusual And Obscure English Words You Never Heard! Trivia Quiz - Quiz

This trivia quiz is perfect for teaching you some of the unusual and obscure English words you never heard! The English word is made up of numerous words... see moreand sayings that have an underlying meaning most people don’t know or confuse. By taking the quiz, you will not only learn most of them but will get to see how knowledgeable you are of the language. see less

2. Boscaresque means

Explanation

Boscaresque means a scenic grove of trees. It is derived from the combination of the words "bosque" meaning forest or grove, and "picturesque" meaning visually attractive or scenic. Therefore, the correct answer is "A scenic grove of trees".

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3. A xylophile loves

Explanation

A xylophile is someone who loves wood. This is evident from the given options where all the other options (words, women, and wine) do not relate to wood. Therefore, the correct answer is wood.

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4. A scurryfunge is

Explanation

A scurryfunge refers to a last minute tidy up before the arrival of guests. This term is often used to describe the act of quickly cleaning and organizing a space in order to make it presentable and welcoming for visitors. It implies a sense of hurriedness and urgency in getting the cleaning done in a short amount of time.

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5. Bombilate is a verb meaning to

Explanation

Bombilate is a verb that means to buzz or hum. It does not mean to explode, vary in altitude, or be round in shape. Therefore, the correct answer is "buzz or hum".

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6. Bumptious is another word for

Explanation

Bumptious is a synonym for arrogant. It refers to someone who is excessively self-assertive or conceited, often displaying an attitude of superiority and disregard for others. This word implies a sense of overconfidence and a tendency to boast or show off. Therefore, the correct answer is arrogant.

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7. The chess term checkmate came from which language?

Explanation

The correct answer is Persian. The term "checkmate" in chess originated from the Persian phrase "shāh māt," which means "the king is helpless" or "the king is defeated." This phrase was used in ancient Persia to announce the capture of an opponent's king, and it eventually became the term used universally in chess to signify the end of a game.

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8. Ullage is

Explanation

Ullage refers to the empty portion of a container, particularly a wine bottle. It is commonly used to describe the space between the top of the liquid and the top of the container. This term is often used in the wine industry to determine the quality and age of the wine. The ullage in a wine bottle can provide important information about the storage conditions and potential oxidation of the wine.

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9. Gadzookery is

Explanation

Gadzookery refers to the intentional use of old-fashioned language. This means that someone is purposely using outdated or archaic words and phrases to create a certain effect or evoke a sense of nostalgia. It is a form of linguistic playfulness where individuals choose to communicate in a more traditional or antiquated manner, often for comedic or stylistic purposes. Gadzookery can be observed in literature, theater, and even in everyday conversations where individuals adopt a more formal or outdated language style for humorous or dramatic effect.

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10. A zwodder is a

Explanation

A zwodder refers to a drowsy state. It is a condition where a person feels extremely sleepy or lethargic. This term is often used to describe a state of tiredness or sleepiness that is difficult to shake off. It can be characterized by a lack of energy, difficulty in staying awake, and a strong desire to sleep.

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Which famous military leader gave us the expression "turn a blind...
Boscaresque means
A xylophile loves
A scurryfunge is
Bombilate is a verb meaning to
Bumptious is another word for
The chess term checkmate came from which language?
Ullage is
Gadzookery is
A zwodder is a
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