the.com/doohickey
The official name for any object you refuse to learn the real name of.
means An informal placeholder word for a small gadget, part, or object whose actual name you don't know or can't recall.
from American slang from the early 20th century, likely blending 'doodad' with 'hickey' — itself an old slang word for any unnamed gizmo or pimple-like bump. Sailors and mechanics get credit for spreading it, needing quick names for the countless unlabeled parts and fittings they handled daily.
- origin era
- Navy slang from World War One sailors
- word family
- Cousin to thingamajig, whatsit, and gizmo
- linguistic purpose
- Placeholder noun for objects defying quick description
- usage tell
- Always said while pointing, never while typing specs