💡 Spanking New 💡
Definition: Brand-new, completely novel. This phrase uses “spanking” in the sense of “very” or “exceedingly,” a usage dating from the late 1800s. Its origin is unknown, but it has nothing to do with the act of beating or slapping.
Synonyms:
- Fresh as a daisy
- Mint condition
- Pristine
- Untainted
- Unblemished
Antonyms:
- Old as the hills
- Antiquated
- Worn-out
- Tattered
Humor-filled Quotes:
- “A ‘spanking new’ pair of shoes will probably outlast your enthusiasm to break them in.”
- “In a ‘spanking new’ suit, one should avoid any food that requires a bib—and a tablecloth.”
Related Expressions:
- Brand New - Newly made or obtained, retaining its pristine quality.
- Hot off the press - Recently printed or produced.
- Hot out of the oven - Freshly baked, just prepared.
Proverbs:
- “Out with the old, in with the new.”
- “Today’s news is tomorrow’s fish and chip paper.”
Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies:
- The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald: “The house . . . was a colossal affair . . . spanking new under a thin beard of raw ivy.”
- “Start Me Up” by The Rolling Stones: Because everyone knows a “spanking new” start deserves a rock anthem.
- Cinderella: Because, let’s face it, that transformation was the epitome of “spanking new.”
Related and Similar Terms:
- “Breaking the seal”
- “Pulling out all the stops”
- “Thinking outside the box” (while typically older, it implies a fresh perspective)
Quizzes 🎓
### Which phrase is genuine?
- [ ] Like a brand-new skunk
- [x] Spanking new
- [ ] As fresh as a mulberry ghost
- [ ] Squeaky old cheese
> **Explanation:** "Spanking new" is a real term meaning brand-new or fresh. The others are whimsical fabrications.
### Which idiom means brand new?
- [ ] Old hat
- [ ] Wet behind the ears
- [x] Fresh off the press
- [ ] Cool as a cucumber
> **Explanation:** "Fresh off the press" is an idiom that means new, typically referring to something newly made or produced.
### True or False: "Spanking new" has nothing to do with physical punishment.
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** "Spanking new" is a term that means brand-new or fresh, and "spanking" here is used in the sense of "very" or "exceedingly." It has no relation to physical punishment.
### Which of these synonyms can mean 'brand-new'?
- [ ] Dusty
- [ ] Antique
- [ ] Worn-out
- [x] Pristine
> **Explanation:** "Pristine" means in its original condition; unspoiled, a fitting synonym for "spanking new."
May your journey through words and their whimsical wonders always keep you amused and inspired. Until next time, keep it “spanking new” and keep exploring!
— Lucille Wordsmith
