Given a choice many of us would not be opposed to being called *spiffy*, because it sounds like something nice to be, even if we are not quite sure what it means. Whatever it is, spiffy sounds very positive and put together, never haphazard, chaotic or random. Mr Peanut, of Planters fame, is quite clearly spiffy.
Surprisingly, the origins of the word are not completely known although it has been around and in use since the 19th century and perhaps even earlier than that. My research into spiffy suggests that it may be a “cant” word; a word used by members of a group as a form of identity and a way of excluding those outside. A kind of secret language, or perhaps a type of “anti-language” adopted by smaller clans within a society to express resistance to the standards and mores of the day.
In any case (upper, lower, brief, etc) spiffy comes to us neat and clean and dare I say, dapper? Those of you in our secret club will tease out the hidden meaning and meet under the clock tower at 4:00am. Be there or be square mon ami. Mum’s the word. Eyes only. Bring your top hat and spats.
whoisfenton 