Language evolves. The meaning of a word can shift over time as we use it differently — think of “cool,” “heavy,” or even “literally.”
Ah this is ‘my type’ of prompt. There are so many such words which have gained additional meanings over time, and sadly all what most people know are the irrelevant or absolute hogwash ones. And many easily associate ones which don’t make sense at all. Others are as said above are just thrown about loosely.
I’d like to share one such story of butchery of a word, here as you might have guess. This brilliant comic courtesy of the ever amazing The Oatmeal.
Categories: Humor - I like irony, puns and dark side humor.
Tags: humor
Anne Squared 
So does that mean we should be saying “I figuratively pissed my pants”? I could work with that.
Unless a bladder issue and laughing makes it a true statement – and why advertise, imo – yes.
There must be a better way to express the level of humor: “I laughed so hard that snot came out my nose.” is one phrase that comes to mind. 😉
I literally agree 😉
What a great post. So many people use that word incorrectly. Loved those examples, especially the steamroller one. Something tells me Falwell’s prediction won’t come true…