fossil word

Questions

What does fossil word mean?

A word that is broadly obsolete but remains in current use because it is contained within an idiom that is still in use.

Where does fossil word come from?

Probably from the fact that a fossil was once a living organism, but is still of historical and scientific interest.

How to pronounce fossil word

1. Open the pronunciation page — Open the Speakur entry for “fossil word”.
2. Read the phonetic spelling — Read the IPA spelling () so you know which sounds to aim for.
3. Play the audio — Click Play to hear reference audio for “fossil word”.
4. Repeat and practice — Say “fossil word” aloud, matching stress and vowels until it feels natural.