‘Manspreading’ Makes List of Words Banished for ‘General Uselessness’

By Robin Young

‘Manspreading’ Makes List of Words Banished for ‘General Uselessness’

By Robin Young
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WNYC Public Radio's John Keefe demonstrates “manspreading,” which refers to how men often take up too much space on public transportation. (Richard Yeh/WNYC)

“So,” “manspreading,” and “giving me life” made this years’ “Annual List of Words Banished from the Queen’s English for Mis-Use, Over-Use and General Uselessness,” released today by list compilers at Lake Superior State University in Michigan.

Here & Now’s Robin Young talks to John Shibley, who works in the school’s public relations department and teaches communications.