Friday, July 24, 2009

Omphaloskepsis


omphaloskepsis \ˌäm(p)-fə-lō-ˈskep-səs\ noun: 1. contemplation of one’s navel as an aid to meditation, 2: indisposition to motion, exertion or change; inertia

Etymology: New Latin, from Greek omphalos + skepsis examination

Omphaloskepsis has taken on additional meanings; it can be a synonym for “introspection” or it can mean “self-centeredness, egotism or conceit.” How long have these other meanings been around?

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