Difference between revisions of "Wet - whet"
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One might take some fresh air (or alcoholic drink) to '''whet one's appetite'''; but too much of the latter might <strike>wet</strike> it, or in other words drown it, or reduce it. | One might take some fresh air (or alcoholic drink) to '''whet one's appetite'''; but too much of the latter might <strike>wet</strike> it, or in other words drown it, or reduce it. | ||
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Revision as of 14:52, 10 April 2007
To wet is a verb meaning 'to make wet', 'to add liquid to.'
To whet means 'to put an edge on', 'to sharpen.' This was originally a literal meaning: farmer might whet a scythe, or a soldier might whet a sword. Now it is mostly used figuratively, to mean to 'put an edge on', or increase, 'one's appetite, wit, etc.'
One might take some fresh air (or alcoholic drink) to whet one's appetite; but too much of the latter might wet it, or in other words drown it, or reduce it.
