Why is mom spelled mum?
We spell “mum” M-U-M because that’s the short form of “chrysanthemum” that we use for that particular flower. It’s also a word we use to mean “silent”, as in “keep mum about this.” To us the words “mom” and “mum” have different meanings and pronunciations, so naturally they are also spelled differently.
Why do British people say Zed?
It’s thought that zee was last used in England during the late 17th century; however, usage is difficult to trace, because pronunciations for letters were not often written down. Regardless, zee made its way to the British colonies in North America.
Why do British say us instead of me?
It’s a form of avoidance, part the broader expression of politeness. Saying “you and I” rather than “me and you” is another instance of this. We avoid direct reference to ourselves as a way expressing deference. We do this also with titles and nicknames.
What is the British slang for girl?
14. Bird. A word used to describe a woman.