jrob's definitions

Iraqnophobia

An unusually strong fear of Iraq, especially its ability to manufacture and use biological, chemical, and nuclear weapons. (A play on arachnophobia, an unusually strong fear of spiders.)

Now that September is here, President Bush can launch his "initial public offering" of stock in his newest product, Iraqnophobia.

by JRob October 5, 2005

ransom factor

The tendency for one party in a civil case to settle out of court to avoid the potentially high cost of fighting the case.

Newspaper publishers, when faced with a potential libel case, often try to settle out of court by paying a ransom factor rather than take their chances with a jury trial.

by JRob November 3, 2005

cashtray

A car ashtray that has been repurposed as a coinholder.

Here comes another toll - open the cashtray!

by JRob July 13, 2005

lifehack

A tool or technique that makes some aspect of one's life easier or more efficient.

Web sites now exist, where lifehacker (followers of the movement) can trade lifehacks - suggestions on how to reduce chaos and make their lives more enjoyable.

by JRob December 7, 2005

smoking memo

A memo, letter, or e-mail message that contains irrefutable evidence of a crime. Similar to finding the "smoking gun" at a murder scene.

The investigators were elated to find smoking memos showing that Enron plotted to manipulate Western electrical prices in last year's crisis.

by JRob November 18, 2005

familymoon

A honeymoon in which the bride and groom also bring their children from previous marriages.

With three birthdays, a wedding and a "familymoon," we've had a lot of celebrations in our family lately.

by JRob October 7, 2005

bear bait

On a highway, car that passes you going way over the posted speed limit. If there is a speed trap ahead, he will get caught instead of you. See also cop cleaner. The bear part comes from "Smokey The Bear" - shortened to "Bear" - old CB'er term for a highway patrol officer because of their rather distictive headgear which resembles a national park ranger's hat.

Trucker 1: "Breaker, breaker - Jimmy, I gotta make up some time - any Bears around? Over."
Trucker 2: "Not seen any, Peter - but that young buck blew by us in the Eclipse musta been doing about 90. Bear bait fer sure. Over."

by JRob September 19, 2005