Peel vs. peal
Sunday, July 11th, 2010It’s always a good feeling to receive a message from a friend that includes, among other things, an idea for a Bloody Well Write segment. This short-but-sweet post is a result of just such a message.
Orange peel as art (photo: http://www.flickr.com/photos/shazbot/3180939672/)
Peel = a verb meaning to cut or strip off the outer layer of something, such as the skin of an orange, a heavy sweater, the bark of a tree or the top layer of paint; it’s also a slang term meaning to undress: He peeled off his wet swim trunks and jumped in the shower to wash off the chlorine. It often refers to keeping a lookout for something: Keep your eyes peeled for a bright red VW Beetle. (Slug bug! Whack!)
Peel = a noun meaning the rind or skin of a fruit, such as a grapefruit, banana or apple.
Peal = a noun meaning the loud ringing of a bell or set of bells; it also means any loud, prolonged sound, such as gunfire, thunder or laughter.
Thanks, A.M., for the idea.
Happy trails!
SAK
