cannon fodder
Function: noun
: soldiers regarded or treated as expendable in battle

ad hominem
Pronunciation: (')ad-'hä-m&-"nem, -n&m
Function: adjectiveEtymology: New Latin, literally, to the person
1 : appealing to feelings or prejudices rather than intellect
2 : marked by an attack on an opponent's character rather than by an answer to the contentions made

cotillion
Pronunciation: kO-'til-y&n, k&-
Variant(s): also co·til·lon /kO-'til-y&n, k&-, ko-tE-(y)On/
Function: noun
Etymology: French cotillon, literally, petticoat, from Old French, from cote coat
1 : a ballroom dance for couples that resembles the quadrille2
: an elaborate dance with frequent changing of partners carried out under the leadership of one couple at formal balls
3 : a formal ball

swan song
Function: noun
1 : a song of great sweetness said to be sung by a dying swan
2 : a farewell appearance or final act or pronouncement

TEMPORARILY SHUTTING DOWN THE BLOG ...

Due to this year's mammoth workload, the owner of this blog will be shutting down the blog until further notice.

The owner would like to express hearfelt thanks to anyone who has shown support while the blog is still active.

bluestocking
Pronunciation: -"stä-ki[ng]
Function: noun
Etymology: Bluestocking society, 18th century literary clubs
: a woman having intellectual or literary interests

collateral damage
Part of Speech: noun
Definition: unintentional harm to persons or property as the result of military action

lazy Susan
Pronunciation: -'sü-z&n
Function: noun
: a revolving tray used for serving food, condiments, or relishes

fete
Variant(s): or fête /'fAt, 'fet/
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English fete, from Middle French, from Old French feste -- more at FEAST
1 : FESTIVAL
2 a : a lavish often outdoor entertainment b : a large elaborate party