# skunked term

> English word · Noun

## Definitions
1. A word that becomes difficult to use because it is transitioning from one meaning to another. Purists may insist on the old usage, while descriptivists are more open to newer usages.

## Etymology
Coined by American lawyer, lexicographer, and teacher Bryan A. Garner, and since adopted by some other style guides.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/skunked-term