Word of the week: Meltschmerz

When snow becomes a dirty word.

January 22, 2020 at 5:29AM
Winter's Artic grip loosened a bit Tuesday as temps in the metro hovered around the 40 degree mark, melting some snow and creating puddles in the process. Here, John Rasmussen of Minneapolis leaps a puddle of fresh snow melt along Lagoon Ave. and Irving Ave. S. Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2013, in Minneapolis, MN.(DAVID JOLES/STARTRIBUNE) djoles@startribune.com Winter's Artic grip loosened a bit Tuesday as temps in the metro hovered around the 40 degree mark, melting some snow and created puddles in the p
Sure, it looks pretty when it falls. But that pristine white doesn’t last forever, and eventually you’re left with snirt. (The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Definition: From the German word weltschmerz, or "world weariness," the sense of sadness felt by winter lovers when warm temps ruin the pristine snow.

Sample usage: "The ennui I feel about January is competing with my meltschmerz."

Quality: Don't use this word around someone who is struggling to shovel their driveway.


about the writer

about the writer

James Lileks

Columnist

James Lileks is a Star Tribune columnist.

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