Klingon word: tlhach mu'mey Part of speech: noun Definition: jargon Source: KGT:p45 _______________________________________________ (KGT 45-46): Practitioners of a great many activities have developed specialized vocabulary or uses of words in order to label the tools of their trade or to express subtle distinctions. Such specialized language is known in Klingon as tlhach mu'mey (literally, "faction words"). A good Federation Standard equivalent would be argot or jargon. Interestingly, some fairly common words in Klingon began as tlhach mu'mey and then, over time, spread to general usage, often with altered meanings. In some instances, the words and phrases associated with a particular activity or group are known throughout Klingon society. For example, knowledge of the language of warfare is fairly widespread, as might be expected given that the most striking characteristic of the Klingon Empire is that it is a warrior society. Similarly, terminology associated with food is well known. On the other hand, much specialized vocabulary pertaining to other endeavors remains practically unused except by experts in the particular fields (though most well-educated Klingons probably are familiar with it). While it is not possible to go into every aspect of the various Klingon subcultures here, some examples of the tlhach mu'mey associated with certain fields are presented below. Even if a visitor never engages in any of these activities directly, understanding these words is a good way to gain a more complete comprehension of Klingon culture. At the very least, these words are always useful for showing off. KGT provides examples of tlhach mu'mey from warfare, music, visual arts, food, etc. SEE: tlhach sect, faction (n) -- Voragh Ca'Non Master of the Klingons