I was discussing water problems of roofs with our contractor. He talked about how water would get pulled back under the shingles and over a period of time cause rot and damage. Quick now, what is the word for that? Neither of us could think of it either. I could say it is old age but he is in his thirty’s. Later the word popped into my brain and I sent it to him in an e-mail just to show I was as clever as I thought.
Give up? Capillary, as in capillary action.
Words play hide and seek more often every day. Names do the same. So far I have not had to concede defeat. I have found them all. Some day I will come to a point that I never remember them or if I do I won’t remember why I wanted the word. I may even get to the point where I won’t even know that I knew a word.
But those are concerns for tomorrow. If you didn’t pay attention in high school science, go and Google it. Capillary action. If you are old enough you will be able to look it up in a dictionary.
homo unius libri
Unless you have a rather flat roof, I don't understand why that would happen. Also, it shouldn't happen it they put tar paper (roofer's felt?) down first.
ReplyDeleteOn that you are above my pay grade. The scientific principle is that liquids will be pulled against gravity if the surfaces they are between are close enough. I have seen it illustrated with two panes of glass places very close to each other in water and watched the water rise between the surfaces.
DeleteGrace and peace.