Sheesh

I think 'sheesh' is a word that deserves to be restored to more common usage.

Some things in this world, you can just hear them crying out for another chance. The Thundercats, for one. Tasseled loafers. Richie Sambora.

But i digress. In the case of 'sheesh', just take a moment; listen. You'll hear.

"Please," it begs. "It's not fair! Just because Charles Schulz ruined everything he touched--" Nay, not even Calvin and Hobbes could atone for the sins of Peanuts, try as they might. But i believe the time has come.

Plus, there are any number of nicely related words.

baksheesh (bahk-sheesh') NOUN

Inflected forms: pl. baksheesh

A gratuity, tip, or bribe paid to expedite service, especially in some Middle Eastern countries.

hasheesh (hash-eesh') NOUN

A variant of hashish

So, maybe the last one was a stretch. But i stand my ground. It's perky. It's retro! Gol ding it,* it's just so all-purpose. It says hip, world-weary, and devil-may-care comfort, all in one jaunty syllable. If Old Navy has not yet used it in a commercial, I swear they are salivating over the prospect.

Just try it. 'Sheesh.' Stretch it out; roll it off your upper teeth a few times, Hunter S. Thompson-style. It feels so wonderfully naughty if you do it right. I think you'll agree.

*Next week: Gol Ding.