Why it's called a tuxedo

June 11, 2002

Words have interesting ways of creeping into our language. Here are the origins of a few:

Pooped: In turbulent seas British sailors found that waves did the most damage when they hit the stern, or "poop," of the vessel. A boat that went through strong storms was said to be "pooped," or worn and weary.

Tuxedo: European settlers named a lake near New York City "Tuxedo," an adaptation of a native American word. Socialite Pierre Lorillard threw parties at the lake, and the new fashion sported by male attendees became known as the tuxedo.

Sucker: Early settlers in America discovered many species of fish that swam near the bottom of lakes sucking up bits of food. The fish were so abundant that fishermen often found suckers on their hooks. Now, anyone that bites at a scoundrel's bait is called a sucker.

Source: "Why You Say It: The Fascinating Stories Behind Over 600 Everyday Words and Phrases" by Webb Garrison (Rutledge Hill Press)