Nictate

Nictate or Nictitate is a verb (Medieval Latin 1815-1825) that means to briefly shut the eyes, to “wink” or “blink”.  Many non-verbal messages are sent with a simple wink or blink of the eyes.  

A wink can be interpreted many ways, such as flirting, a sign of approval or comfort or a shared secret. Our eyelids blink to moisten our eyes, but rapid blinking can sign of nervousness or even lying.     

The word is also used to describe animals with nictitating membranes, which is a translucent third eyelid that can be drawn across the eye for moisture or protection from the elements. It is found primarily in fish, birds, reptiles and many mammals, including camels, polar bears, cats, dogs and seals.  The nictitating membranes move horizontally across the eye. 

Some examples for using Nictate in a sentence: 

“Are you trying to flirt with me or does your eye nictate involuntarily”? 

“She must be nervous as both eyes nictate rapidly when she talks to me.”

“It appears that the eyes of the newscaster never nictitate.” 

“A clear third eyelid, known as the nictitating membrane covers and protects the otters eyes as it swims under water.”  

Here’s a special wink for you!  

Philomath

A Philomath (noun) is a person who loves to learn; a scholar. A philomath is a seeker of knowledge and facts. It is Greek in origin from the 16th century from the word philomathia. Philos (loving) and mathos (to learn).

“ She is such a Philomath that she is studying for her third PhD.”
   
The word is not commonly used today, however, there is a small town outside of Corvallis Oregon that is keeping the word alive.

Philomath Oregon, population of approximately 4,600 was named after Philomath College established in the mid 1800’s.  It is a beautiful town and you can find several YouTube video’s about it if you wish to explore.

I like this word and I love to learn so I will try to use it whenever possible.  Let’s keep it alive!

Philomath College - closed in 1929