Speedo

/ˈspiːdoʊ/ noun

Definition

A type of snug-fitting one-piece swimming brief (also used generically for any such swimwear), or a speedometer.

Etymology

A trademarked brand name 'Speedo' coined in the 1920s by Australian company Fortuna, combining 'speed' and 'torpedo' (for its streamlined design). Brand names can genericize into common words.

Kelly Says

Speedo is fascinating because it's a brand name that actually became the common word in some regions—like how 'kleenex' became 'tissue' or 'xerox' became 'copy.' But only in certain contexts and countries; it never fully lost its brand identity!

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