YOU’RE SO JADE

By D Naughton, February 2, 2012

I find it funny how one word can have different meanings and how sometimes those meanings can diametrically oppose each other.  For example, take jade.  We all know it as a precious stone.  It can be a succulent plant. But did you know it also means a broken-down horse.  One is prized.  One is vital.   While one is a hoof from stepping into a glue factory.  How can one word go from priceless to lush to worthless without subtracting a vowel?  I find it confusing.  Can this sentence be understood?

“The jade was jaded even more by having to wear a  jade-encrusted vest, which made those at the auction look on quite jadely.”

Meaning: Strapping a vest made of precious stones and succulent leaves to a lame animal will not raise its value.  In fact, there are those who will express their displeasure in the move by creating a new adverb (jadely).