vorpal, a.
(ˈvɔːpəl)
A word invented by ‘Lewis Carroll’ app. with the sense ‘keen, deadly’; also in subsequent allusive uses.
| 1871 ‘L. Carroll’ Through Looking-Glass i. 22 The vorpal blade went snicker-snack! 1941 Auden New Year Let. ii. 44 Wave at the mechanized barbarian The vorpal sword of an agrarian. 1970 [see frabjous a.]. |