Just as human beings wear many hats in their lifetime, words too wear many hats; they explain, they deliver information, and they help put our thoughts into action.
Words have the power to make things happen—the power to do more than merely convey meaning. They have the ability to help, to heal, to humiliate, to hurt, and to delight. It is said that words are the only weightless things in this world that can actually make you feel heavy. And when words dress up—becoming colourful, whimsical, and funny in order to describe even something ordinary or an absurd situation—they draw attention to themselves through funny sounds or catchy rhythms.
Who can forget Lewis Carroll’s Jabberwocky, a masterpiece of nonsense replete with words like “mimsy,” “whiffling,” and “frumious,” which create a delightfully funny fantasy world? The playful language, extensive puns, and use of nonsensical words effectively serve to create humour.
Many popular songs also incorporate absurdly funny words and whimsical nonsense syllables. A classic song from the 1964 Disney film Mary Poppins, “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,” revolves around a single, extremely long and nonsensical word that describes something as extraordinarily good or wonderful (you have to listen to the song to truly experience its effect).
The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy series by Douglas Adams is renowned for its satirical humour and absurd, inventive terminology.
And then there are limericks that make one giggle with their imaginativeness and silliness. Funny words and wordplay have always been used to add layers of humour and satire to writing.
When language becomes playful, musical, festive, and joyful—that is when words wear party hats.
Image Courtesy: https://www.canva.com/ai/dream-lab
If these playful words made you smile or think differently about language, share your thoughts in the comments below. Let’s keep the celebration going.
– Seema Dhameja
About the Writer
Seema Dhameja holds an M.Phil in Botany and has served as a Lecturer at a Government College in Chandigarh. Her writing journey began with her first published article in the Children’s Column of The Tribune, followed by winning numerous caption contests hosted by the publication.
She has authored and published several articles in The Times of India and Women’s Era. In addition to writing a book on party games, she has co-authored books on environmental studies and industrial psychology.
Seema Dhameja is currently based in Manila, Philippines.
