Definition 1: That today's word means a "receding hairline" is pure balderdash! According to the Oxford English Dictionary, in the 16th century this word meant "froth," as in the barber's balderdash used for shaving. By the 17th century it referred to a kind of mixed drink, e.g. milk and beer, beer and wine, brandy and mineral waters. By the end of the 18th century the term picked up its current meaning, "a jumbled mix of meaningless words; malarkey; hog-wash; bunkum."

Usage 1: Never drink balderdash of any sort. Better yet, simply use today's word as an expletive, viz. "Balderdash! None of what you say makes sense."

Suggested usage: This is the sort of word that comes in handy when referring to activities in seats of power like Washington, London, Canberra, and New Delhi, some of the balderdash capitals of the world. But you find this stuff around the house, too, so name it when you hear it: "You can't mow the lawn because you have to take care of the sick cat? That's pure balderdash, Reginald."

Etymology: The origins of this word remain unclear. It could derive from the English dialectal term balder "to use coarse language," akin to Dutch balderen "to roar, thunder," Norwegian baldra, Icelandic baldrast or ballrast "to clatter" plus the verb "dash" in one of its various senses. More likely it is borrowed from the Welsh baldorddus "idle noisy talk, chatter." Neither interpretation is certain. (Our thanks today to Albert A. Gagne Jr., Environmental Specialist currently protecting the environment of the state of Florida from balderdash and other pollutants.)