JANIFORM

TileHead’s Word of the Day for 4 January 2012

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JANIFORM  (adj.)

Definition(s):

1. (adj.) having two faces looking in opposite directions (as the Roman god Janus)
2. (adj.) hypocritical; two-faced; deceitful
3. (adj.) having two contrasting aspects or characteristics

Useful information for game players:

• Front hooks: (none)
• Back hooks: (none)
• Anagrams: (none)
• Longer extensions: (none)
• Wraparounds: (none)
• Other Spellings: (none)
• Related Forms: (none)

Epilogue:
The Roman deity Janus was was regarded as the guardian of doors and of times of new beginnings or transition.  He was usually depicted as having two faces, one looking forward and one looking backward — a perfect metaphor for the passing from one year to the next, as we simultaneously reflect on days gone by and look forward to the future.

As you might have guessed, the word JANIFORM derives from Janus, as does the name for the month of January, which opens the door to a new year.


This week’s theme: Words for a new year

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