In the splendid Alexis Tarabotti "Parasol Protectorate" series, Gail Carriger introduces three new words. The "clavigers," caretakers of the werewolves and agents for their daylight activities, derive their name from "key carrier, or club bearer." That's another twist on werewolf life. Like vampires, they cannot operate during the day. Werewolves aren't burned up by sunlight, and very strong, older werewolves can tolerate it for a few days, but they are mostly comatose. This is an odd limitation.
Where DO they get these ideas? I'm still smiling about fairies and lemon, from the Charlaine Harris TRUE BLOOD series.
Also new is the Dewan position of the Shadow Council, supernaturals who advise Queen Victoria. That word, too, has a long history, and means council member or leader. The word divan is actually derived from dewan because seats of this long cushioned type were found in ancient Arabic council changers. I am unable to track down the meaning of "muhjah," Alexia's title in the council. It appears to be a Muslim name, "heart's blood," or "soul." Is Carriger teasing us with the soulless Alexia having this position? Regardless, these meet my test of great new vocabulary words. I'm thinking about trying dewan the next time I play Scrabble.
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