Word of the Day: Snollygoster
It sounds silly, but “snollygoster” is one of the most delightfully complicated words in the English language. First recorded in the mid-19th century, it originally described a person who was shrewd or clever, often with a touch of dishonesty. Think of a politician who says one thing and does another, or a salesman with a grin that’s just a little too wide.
In American history, the term gained fame when President Harry Truman revived it in the 1950s to describe politicians who put personal gain above principle. He didn’t mince words, calling out “a bunch of snollygosters” in Washington. It’s one of those words that rolls off the tongue but carries a sting.
Over time, “snollygoster” has taken on softer, more playful meanings. Today, you might use it to describe anyone sly or cunning, not always in a bad way. A savvy negotiator, a quick-witted debater, or even a friend who always wins board games might earn the title.
Next time someone outsmarts you with charm and cleverness, you can grin and say, “Well, aren’t you a snollygoster?” It’s a word that reminds us how language evolves...and how much fun it can be to bring old words
back to life.
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