The Oliver English Dictionary

A guide to the more obscure words in the Olivernacular

The first of several instalments

beelabaa
A phrase common during the babbling era, of uncertain origin and significance, but still in occasional use. Also kizzick-kizzick, ducka-ducka, gibby-gibby, obby-bobby

eary
Folded, as of the ears under an improperly donned hat. My ears are a little eary.

huggy
1. to embrace; 2. a means of transportation involving being carried. Let's huggy to the park. From early Oliverese huck, later hugga.

lellow
The colour of a banana.

loud
Said of the ears after a great noise is heard. My ears are too loud.

moderner
A device for listening to one room while in another.

playplen
An enclosure in which an infant plays.

shutta [rhymes with 'foot-a']
Verb implying obligation. We shutta go to the den.

shwee
Verb of suggestion with unsubtle hints of expectation. Shwee go to the store?

soobuck
Archaic: A vehicle to carry children to a place of education.

stop stein
A notice found alongside roads, ordering vehicles to halt at that point.

suggle
Obsolete word for a sleepy embrace.

whistle-cloff
An auditory device found on locomotives. Perhaps from a reference to an obstructed one in Thomas and Friends.

yo prem-prem
Interjection indicating that all is well. Often said for no apparent reason.