Namely, 40

NAMELY

eponyms (EP-uh-nimz)

words based on or derived from a person's name.

First Known Use: mid-19^th century

“What’s in a Name?”

Juliet in Romeo and Juliet, 2.2­­

40: wellingtons—wellies—British English: knee-length waterproof boots made of rubber or plastic (from Arthur Wellesley, 1^st Duke of Wellington, 1769–1852 (led the defeat of Napoleon at Waterloo), who first wore and popularized them; first known use of word, 1816)

Napoleon had some time to think

In his captivity.

“I wonder what I could have done

To have a victory?

“It was a disappointment—yes,

Completely! Through and through!

I never should have lost that fight

That time at Waterloo!

“I bet I know the answer!” he

Then cried to moons and suns.

“I should have worn, I realize,

A pair of Wellingtons!”