TV word of the day – “Snollygoster”. What is the definition of Snollygoster?

The word’s origin is unknown, but developed as slang in the 1800s, between roughly 1855 and 1860, states Dictionary.com. It defines Snollygoster as “a clever, unscrupulous person.”

The Free Dictionary however believes the word Snollygoster could have developed from “snallygaster”, which is a “mythical beast said to prey on poultry and children”. Or Snollygoster could have come from “Pennsylvania Dutch schnelle geeschter” that derives as follows:

“Middle High German snl, quick (from Old High German) + Middle High German geist, spirit (from Old High German).”

Free Dictionary defines Snollygoster today as often used to describe a political figure:

“One, especially a politician, who is guided by personal advantage rather than by consistent, respectable principles.”