Wordy (and Watson) Wednesday

[stonepicnicking_okapi]

The Wednesday word is...

pawky.

having a mocking or cynical sense of humour

[Origin: mid 17th century: from Scots and northern English pawk ‘trick’, of unknown origin.]

This is a word I associate with Watson because Holmes says Watson is developing a pawky sense of humour in The Valley of Fear:

“The famous scientific criminal, as famous
among crooks as—”
“My blushes, Watson!” Holmes murmured in a
deprecating voice.
“I was about to say, as he is unknown to the
public.”
“A touch! A distinct touch!” cried Holmes.
“You are developing a certain unexpected vein of
pawky humour, Watson, against which I must learn
to guard myself...

Comments

[smallhobbit]

I do like Watson's pawky sense of humour!

[stonepicnicking_okapi]

Yes, I didn't realize that was from Valley of Fear, though, and it comes on the same page as the '>I'm inclined to think—” said I. / “I should do so”' exchange so Holmes doesn't really have a leg to stand on.

[garonne]

Thank you for reminding me of the existence of this word (which I also associate with Watson! :) )

[stonepicnicking_okapi]

You are very welcome! It is our Watson word, isn't it?