For those interested in canal matters will know I have posted variously over the years about the varying fortunes of the local canal that sometimes gets visited by me whilst on a bike ride. My most recent visit shows that the canal is back to healthy levels and indeed looks very canal like again.
Having a couple of spare minutes, not something that I admit to Mrs. Woody, I casually typed into Google (other search engines are available, etc) 'Is there a name for having an interest in canals?' and this is what it came up with!
Yes, there is a specific, widely recognized term for having a keen interest in canals and, in particular, watching canal boats and locks in action: Gongoozler.
Here are the details regarding this and related terms:
- Gongoozler: A person who enjoys watching activities on the canals (especially at locks) but does not actively participate in boat navigation. The term is often used affectionately by the canal community to describe canal-side spectators.
- Gongoozling: The act or hobby of spending time watching boats, locks, and general canal life.
- Origin: The term originated in the late 19th or early 20th century, likely from the Lincolnshire dialect words gawn and gooze, both meaning to stare or gape.
- Other Related Terms:
- Canal enthusiast/fan: Used for someone with a general interest in canal history, engineering, or photography.
- Lock Anorak: An informal term for a canal enthusiast who is deeply interested in the specifics of canal locks, a "geek" for canal infrastructure.
- The Cut: Used in British canal slang to refer to the canal itself (originating from when canals were "cut" out of the landscape).
Gongoozlers often collect or create canal-related art, take photographs, or simply enjoy the tranquillity and activity of "the cut".
Well I never knew that so everyday is a school day but it leaves the question as to if I am a Gongoozler or a Lock Anorak? I don't think I will seek Mrs. Woody's opinion on that!
No comments:
Post a Comment