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Kvetch

Posted: Fri Jan 12, 2024 7:07 pm
by amandel
I was asked about this word, and I was sure there would be a WOTD entry to support my explanations. There wasn't, how come, I never seem to find one...

Never mind, I was only kvetching for fun, not really complaining.

Re: Kvetch

Posted: Sat Jan 13, 2024 5:09 pm
by brogine
According to Leo Rosten’s The Joys of Yiddish - and HRH, the OED - the word derives from the German ‘quetschen’, ‘squeeze’ or ‘press’.

Although Rosten cites several meanings, I think it’s safe to say that these days its near-exclusive use is yours, ‘complain’.

Practitioners of the ancient art are (male) ‘kvetcher’ and (female) ‘kvetcherkeh’.

Re: Kvetch

Posted: Sat Jan 13, 2024 5:32 pm
by Slava
Can't someone also simply be a kvetch?

Re: Kvetch

Posted: Sat Jan 13, 2024 9:45 pm
by brogine
I’ve heard that usage and you’re perfectly right. Should have noted that. Supported by both sources mentioned. Thanks.