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The Word/ Trumor: It's like a rumor, except it's true

April 12, 2016 at 8:32PM

Definition: A rumor that turns out to be, well, you know.

Sample usage: "I didn't believe the speculation that the Kardashians were bringing out a line of high-quality violin bow rosin, but it was a trumor!"

Popularity: It's a sibling of "truthy," Stephen Colbert's word for something that isn't true but sorta kinda is because it sounds like it should be. The problem with the word, though, is structural: The second syllable undercuts the first. You're still left with the evanescent impression of a rumor, true or not. Best used as a comeback, perhaps. "Well, you've heard the rumor … " "You mean, the trumor." (Knowing wink.)

JAMES LILEKS

Heard a new word or phrase you want us to dissect? Let us know at word@startribune.com.

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