Brief, often amusing stories about real incidents or people, typically shared to illustrate a point or entertain. These personal narratives are usually based on direct experience or reliable sources.
From Greek 'anekdota' meaning 'things unpublished,' from 'an-' (not) and 'ekdidonai' (to publish). Originally referred to unpublished writings, particularly Procopius's secret history of Byzantine court scandals. The meaning shifted to any brief, revealing story.
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