The Etymology of Gauche
July 15th, 2008 by
TimMc | 
Gauche: awkward or clumsy, lacking social graces
“His attempts at humor weren’t funny; they were gauche.”
In modern French, the word gauche means “left” which derived indirectly from the Latin word “sinistra” meaning left-handed.
This is an intriguing word to me for several reasons:
- I’m left handed. I don’t think I’m awkward, clumsy, or lacking in social graces though.
- The negative historical implications of being left handed are very obvious by looking at the root words. Evidently the French didn’t (don’t?) appreciate those folks who are left handed.
- The Latin root “sinistra” is also the root for sinister. There is a clear association between being left handed and being looked upon as a sinister person.
Anyhow, it’s an interesting word with an interesting history! (He says with a sinister look in his eye while his left hand firmly grips a pencil.) Hehehe…
July 17th, 2008 at 10:00 am
“I’m left handed.”
I just heard a thing on NPR about southpaws being exceptional athletes. Well, except in the arena of golf, but I don’t consider that much of a sport. its more like loitering with clubs.
July 17th, 2008 at 10:22 am
Thanks for the comment! One of my favorite PGA players is Phil Mickelson (he’s left handed). I do have to say that I chuckled at your description of golf – loitering with clubs. A very accurate description!
July 17th, 2008 at 11:36 am
I am not left handed, but I am clumsy.
My younger sister is left handed and has used it as an excuse to get out of things like ironing, even now at the age of 24.
July 17th, 2008 at 1:46 pm
I’m a lefty too <3
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