The Rice University Neologisms Database

A social event that is neither spectacular nor mundane. It is a blend of a party and an informal gathering of friends Because I was involved in the formation of this word, the intended meaning is very clear. A turkey kicker is a social gathering that is not as spectacular as a party, but not as mundane as friends hanging out together. The word “turkey” has no connotations of a social event. The word “kicker” does have social connotations. However, the use of the word kicker in this neologism does not originate from the social meaning of “kicker”, but rather from the actual action of kicking. The –er suffix was added to “kick” to form the word as a noun, meaning “a thing/event characterizing kicking a turkey.” This word was originally only used among those who remembered the event that provoked the formation of the word. However, the word has now come to be used by people who have no knowledge of its origins. Despite having no knowledge of the origin, the word does bring up a strong image, so users can often gain a general idea of the word’s meaning through it’s connotation. This word was actually formed out of the necessity for a new word. We felt that we had no word to describe a “turkey kicker” and that is why the word has survived so long among my friends. It also explains why the word has found success beyond those who know its immediate origins.