Words, Words, Words
While watching the Tour de France this year, I realized that the announcers use a few words that I only hear this time of year. I thought that you might like to see them.
“Chicane” – The general definition is “deception” or “trickery.” That’s the definition I remember, especially with the word, chicanery.
- But the Tour de France announcers use the word, chicane, to mean “a short section of sharp narrow bends formed by barriers placed on a motor-racing circuit to provide an additional test of driving skill.” (see Dictionary.com).
- So, the announcers were describing a road course that has “tricky” curves and bends.
- Hmm . . . feel free to use this word in your everyday life!
“Peloton” – I always thought the bike racing community used this word to mean a “group.” The announcers use the word for the largest group on the course, regardless of who is in it.
- Interesting that the origin of the word (French, of course) means “a little ball,” which also happens to be the base of our English word, “platoon.”
And last, but definitely, not least, “Traffic furniture” – WHAT? There are chairs and tables in the middle of the road?
- Considering that the race takes place mostly in France, I thought that, perhaps, that road furniture referred to a chaise lounge (haha – sorry, I crack myself up 🤣).
- No, it means a barrier of some kind, like a median. I like the real furniture idea, though. . . .
Watching the Tour de France (and listening to Phil Liggett, especially) is one of my favorite July TV times.
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