LEAF: The Word of the Month October 2017

Every month, we take a look at a word in the headlines, in English, for your English. See more at The Word of the Month.

Definitions

Leaf (plural Leaves): Often seen on plants and trees. Also: a page or paper.

To leaf (through a book): to quickly turn pages.

Don’t confuse with to leave (to exit).

Leaves in the news

Leafing through the newspaper can be so depressing*. Let’s look out the window instead: Autumn leaves are falling!

*Catalonia may leave Spain, the US has left UNESCO, Harvey Weinstein should leave the planet.

Leafs to know

Maple Leaf: Symbol of Canada. Polite. Apologetic. America’s hat.

4-leaf clover: Brings good luck. Alternate currency of Ireland.

Fig Leaf: The original underwear. As worn by Adam and Eve (post apple fiasco).

Leafy expressions

To shake like a leaf: To be very scared. Why are you shaking? Only 3 more years of Trump.

To take a leaf out of someone’s book: To follow someone’s example. Catalonia’s taking a leaf out of the best-selling Secessionist Handbook.

To turn over a new leaf: To make a fresh start. Why not open a new browser window instead?

Take a look through our Word of the Month archives, or improve your English with gymglish.com.

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