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I am reading a book about the 14th century. You can see why this word is relevant. My apologies to Slava, who introduced this word about five years ago.

Without an explanation, I don't see the connection between the word and the century. However, here are the suggestion, courtesy of Grogie, and subsequent treatment.

Slava, here is the explanation: do you recall what is said about the Middle Ages? Life was nasty, brutish and short. You might add that due to the prevalence of and recurring plague and war it must have been malodorous as well.

"Ah ha," said the blind carpenter as he picked up his hammer and saw.