New Words
Compiled by Kenneth Lyen
Phubbing (noun), phubbed (verb): to be ignored while someone in your company vocally answers or sends a text message on the cell phone. James A. Roberts, Professor of Marketing at Baylor University, coined the word "phubbing," which he explains is the amalgamation of the words "phone" and "snubbing."
"To be phubbed" is to be snubbed by someone using their cell phone while in your company." That person might interrupt your conversation by answering the cell phone, sneak a glance, or is distracted by the phone.
In older cultures, this behavior is considered rude, but the widespread adoption of this behavior in the 21st century suggests that the interruption of communication is acceptable etiquette.
More examples of phubbing shown above.
Usage: "So frus to be phubbed by you.... can't you turn off your handphone?"
Terrex (verb): to confiscate
Origin: Terrex is the name of the nine armored vehicles that were seized on 23 Nov 2016 by the Hong Kong authorities while transiting there from Taiwan to Singapore.
Usage: “If you bring your handphone into the exam, I will terrex it.”
Chizza (verb): to disappoint.
Origin: On 8 Feb 2017, KFC introduced Chizza, their new pizza on a fried chicken base to Singapore. Nearly everbody was underwhelmed by it. US Late Night talk show host Seth Myer commented: It’s just their (KFC) way of saying ‘stop coming here.’
Usage: “I expected more from you, but sadly, you chizza me.”