Definition: Grandkids.
Sample usage: (Said with a Scottish accent) "Ach, it's been donkeys since ah last saw ma grandweans."
Popularity: It's an old Scottish word, but the Oxford English Dictionary decided to let it into the big-league official compendium. Weans, by the way, doesn't come from wean. It's from wee (small) and ane (one). It's a charming word, and it's impossible to say without affection. Try it: "Oh, you miserable, nasty grandweans." Doesn't work, does it?
JAMES LILEKS
Heard a new word or phrase you want us to dissect? Let us know at word@startribune.com. See previous entries at startribune.com/word.
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