Word O' The Day

posted by The Vidiot @ 2:33 PM Permalink

Slush Fund
Noun: A fund raised by a group for corrupt practices, such as bribery or graft. As in 'Bush cronies use a slush fund of unreported donations to finance swiftboat attacks.'

Etymology: The term 'slush fund' comes from the Royal Navy from back in the days of sail. The cooks would cook salted meat in large cauldrons and collect the resulting grease that rose to the surface. This slush would then be used to lubricate the blocks and other moving gear onboard. It was considered a perk for the cooks to keep some of this grease back and sell it in port to accumulate their 'slush fund.'

Commentary: As in the original term, the stink and the slimy detritus resulting from contact with a 'slush fund' are found extremely objectionable, except among those who dwell in and on it.