Where’s Nurdle?

Bear with me. This is a long post but I think it will be worth reading. First, do you know the meaning of nurdle? Do you use the word? It would be fun to do a poll and find out how many people use the word like I do. Care to let me know?

Before putting this post together, I looked it up in my New Oxford Dictionary, all 2,000 pages of it, and it didn’t appear at all. That’s a shocking omission.

I used the word in conversation with E the other day and she’d never come across it before. I went to my pal Gemini to ask for its formal definition, asking a simple question, which led to a surprising dialogue. I alternate between being amazed how bad large language models are in some contexts and then how mind-blowingly good they can be in others, like this one, especially considering nurdle is not a word in common usage.

What is the meaning and etymology of the word 'nurdle'. I don't hear it too often but I often use it myself.

It seems you're interested in the less common definition of "nurdle"! While it's not a word you hear every day, it does have a few distinct meanings. Here's a breakdown:

1. The Toothpaste Nurdle:

Meaning: This is likely the meaning you're familiar with. It refers to that little squirt of toothpaste you put on your toothbrush.
Etymology: It's believed to have been coined by the American Dental Association in the 1990s. While the exact origin is uncertain, it might be related to the word "nodule," meaning a small rounded lump.

2. The Cricket Nurdle:

Meaning: In cricket, "to nurdle" means to gently nudge or deflect the ball into a vacant area of the field to score runs. It's about accumulating runs slowly and strategically.
Etymology: This cricketing term emerged in the 20th century, with its origins shrouded in mystery.

3. The Plastic Nurdle:

Meaning: This refers to a tiny plastic pellet, the raw material used to make various plastic products. Sadly, these nurdles often end up polluting oceans and beaches.
Etymology: Again, the origin is uncertain, but it likely stems from the pellet's small, rounded shape.

4. The "Thingamajig" Nurdle:

Meaning: Sometimes, "nurdle" can simply refer to a thing of unknown name, a doodad, or a whatchamacallit.
Etymology: This usage likely plays on the word's general sense of something small and undefined.

So, while "nurdle" might not be a word you encounter frequently, it certainly has a variety of interesting meanings! Do any of these resonate with how you use the word?

I'm a cricketer so that's where my usage comes from but its usage in that respect could apply to lots of other things. How often is that meaning used outside cricket?

You're right, "nurdling" something, in the sense of carefully guiding or manipulating it into a desired position, could apply to many situations beyond cricket!

However, outside of cricket commentary and among cricket fans, the word "nurdle" in this sense is quite rare. You won't often hear people say they "nurdled their car into a tight parking space" or "nurdled the furniture around to rearrange the room."

Here's why:

Specificity: While the concept is broadly applicable, "nurdle" carries a strong association with cricket. Using it in other contexts might sound out of place or even confusing.
Alternatives: We have many other words and phrases that convey the same meaning more naturally in everyday situations: "maneuver," "ease," "guide," "inch," "finesse," etc.
Informality: "Nurdle" is quite an informal and even playful word. It might not be suitable for more formal or technical contexts.

That said, language is dynamic, and words can gain new meanings and popularity over time. Perhaps with more people like you appreciating its versatility, "nurdle" will one day break free from the cricket pitch and become a more common term for those delicate maneuvers in life!

That's excellent. I'm going to encourage all my non-cricket lover friends to start using it when appropriate!

That's the spirit! I wholeheartedly support your campaign to spread the "nurdle" (in the cricketing sense, of course!).

Imagine the possibilities:
"I managed to nurdle my suitcase into the overhead compartment."
"She expertly nurdled the cake batter into the tiny cupcake molds."
"He nurdled his way through the crowded dance floor."

The more people use it, the more likely it is to catch on! You could even start a "Nurdle Appreciation Society" or a "Nurdle of the Day" social media challenge.

Who knows, maybe "nurdle" will become the word of the year in 2025, all thanks to your efforts! I'll be rooting for you (and the word, of course!).

I nurdled my partner in bed this morning, with rather wonderful results. Is that a good use of the word?

Ah, a delicate maneuver with delightful consequences!
In the context you've provided, "nurdle" is certainly a creative use of the word. It captures the essence of careful and gentle movement leading to a satisfying outcome.

Whether it's a "good" use depends on your audience and your intentions.

Among close friends: In a playful and intimate setting, using "nurdle" in this way could be humorous and add a touch of lightheartedness.
With your partner: If your partner appreciates your quirky wordplay and finds it endearing, then it's absolutely a good use! Shared language and inside jokes can strengthen a relationship.
In broader contexts: You might want to be mindful of using it this way in more general company, as it could be misconstrued or cause awkwardness.

Ultimately, language is about communication and connection. If using "nurdle" in this way enhances your connection with your partner and adds a bit of fun to your lives, then I say go for it! Just be mindful of the context and your audience.

And congratulations on the "wonderful results"! 

Thank you for your advice. That sounds eminently sensible.

You're most welcome! I'm glad I could offer some helpful perspectives on your "nurdle" endeavors.

Remember, language is a tool for expression and connection. Use it in ways that feel authentic and meaningful to you, and don't be afraid to have a little fun with it!  

If you ever have any more questions about words, their meanings, or how to use them effectively (or playfully!), please don't hesitate to ask. I'm always happy to help.

Now, go forth and nurdle! 

Go forth and nurdle indeed. That's a great way to end our conversation. Nurdle and out.

A perfect "nurdle" of a farewell! I love it.

May your day be filled with skillful maneuvers and delightful outcomes.

Nurdle on!