Semaphore

Semaphore: A signaling system.  A semaphore uses flags, lights, or mechanical arms to send messages, usually to travelers.  You might see a semaphore next to the railroad tracks. The word might also refer to a system of sending messages by holding the arms or flags in...

Deport

Word: Deport Pronunciation: dəˈpôrt Meaning: to expel someone from a country; to banish Etymology: Deport derives from the Latin preposition de (from, down from) and the verb portare (to carry).  Usage: Words change over time.  These days, to deport someone is to send...

Metaphor

Metaphor: a short similitude; a figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object. For example: The soldier was a lion in combat. From Greek μεταφερω (to transfer), which further derives from μετα (over) and φερω (carry). Mixed metaphors are fun. It’s...