Callithumpian

A fun word today!


Callithumpian is an adjective that refers to a noisy boisterous band of discordant instruments or parade. It is related to a mock serenade made by banging pots and pans together.  It was first noted in America in 1836.  The word is derived from the English word gallithumpian, which means disturber of order at elections in the 18th century.  


This word brings to mind fond memories from my childhood when my neighborhood friends would get together with household items like pots and pans and other assorted items and march around the backyard. We didn't care if it was music, we were just having fun being loud and making funny noises.  Sure, we had a few toys back in the olden days, (big sigh) but this was more fun and creative.  Plus we loved to annoy the adults.  This word is also used to describe revelers using noise makers on New Years' Eve or other celebrations.


Check this out on youtube, if you dare.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3Krl_hRoms  Hey, I think I could do this!


Another definition of the word Callithumpian (Australia) refers to a person of vague religious beliefs, especially associated with nonconformist religion.  I am not really interested in delving into this definition today because the original definition is so much fun, but I wanted to be thorough.  


One more item for this post.  Let's not forget the Callithumpian duck.  Yes, I said duck. It is a long-tailed noisy sea duck also called Old Squaw. It is called a callithumpian duck because of the varied sounds it makes. You can see a picture and hear its call at this link, if you have an interest.  http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Long-tailed_Duck/sounds/ac

 Here is and example of how to use the word in a sentence:  "Energized with cookies, cake and other sugary treats, the children erupted into a callithump, blowing noisemakers and banging pails"     


Now it's your turn.  Can you use the word in a sentence?  Come on, just try!