Today’s word of the day on Dictionary.com is Bellyache. It has been a part of the English language since the mid-16^th century. It means literally, “pain in the bowels, stomachache”, but morphed into an Americanism in the late 19^th century. This new application, which most of us are familiar with, means “to complain; grumble”.

This is one of those slang words that really took off and continues in popularity; used in literature, poetry and newsprint. It’s former, more basic meaning also gets much wide usage especially in medical circles.

Many of us may remember being chided for bellyaching about this or that as children, unless of course our bellies did actually ache. Then we were indulged by our caregivers with love and tender attention. Makes my wonder if that is why we revert to the latter application of the word when we are feeling ignored, left out or left behind. If belly aches gain us comfort and attention…bellyaching ought to reward us similarly. In many cases it does. I’m reminded of the squeaky wheel. Yep. Suffering in silence rarely gets us the attention we feel we deserve, but it’s all about balance. One should avoid becoming a chronic bellyacher. It is true that bellyaching is quite contagious and terminal if not kept in check.

I suppose could bellyache about the weather, current events, life in general…but I won’t bore you. Instead here are a few haiku. Have a great weekend wherever you are! 🙂

worrisome snivelers,
bellyaching nitpickers
see empty glasses

a true bellyache
is when your belly aches;
grumbling optional

all bellyachers
share a common attribute…
rude bursts of hot air

~ kat