Switcheroo

/ˌswɪtʃəˈruː/ noun

Definition

A sudden, unexpected change or swap of one thing for another, especially when done as a trick or surprise.

Etymology

From switch (from Dutch 'swijch', a whip) + -eroo (a playful suffix used in American slang like 'oldie-goldie'). Created in early 20th century American English as playful slang.

Kelly Says

The '-eroo' suffix is pure American slang innovation — it originally came from Australian and British rhyming slang, but Americans loved it so much they added it to everything (switcheroo, switchamajig, doodlebug-eroo).

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