Bark Quote by Ambrose Bierce
“PALM, n. A species of tree . . . of which the familiar "itching palm" ("Palma hominis") is most widely distributed . . . . This noble vegetable exudes a kind of invisible gum, which may be detected by applying to the bark a piece of gold or silver.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Devil's Dictionary, 1906
A humorous definition that satirizes how scientific language can be absurdly obscure.
In simple terms: Scientific terms can sound pretentious and meaningless.
Key Takeaway
Question the clarity of technical jargon.
Themes
satire
language
science
Mood
wry
critical
Type
satirical
humorous
When to use this quote
- academic writing
- science communication
- education
- public policy
Key Concepts
irony
semantic absurdity
Questions to Reflect On
- How does jargon affect understanding?
- When does humor reveal truth?
A Different Perspective
May overlook the practical value of precise terminology.
