- On November 23, 2005, while home for Thanksgiving break, I heard my mom suggest that we take a trip to ‘Targét.’ This is her favorite alternative to the name of the store ‘Target.’ My mom is in her fifties, grew up in Indiana, and lives in Portland, Ore
TARGÉT
noun; analogy
A slang term of the name of the store ‘Target’ similar to the French pronounciation. It is a neologism formed by changing the ending of ‘Target’ to a French pronunciation. Therefore, the word is an ameliorated form of the original name, for French society is seen as being higher culture and having better fashion. Sometimes French society is seen as higher class and more cultured than American. It is associated with culture and the fashion industry. Consequently, changing the pronunciation to French adds an element of class. It gives the illusion that Target is a stylish store. However, it is also a bit oxymoronic, as Target is a retailer known as a step up from Wal-Mart, hardly high fashion. Nevertheless, my mom views Target as a store with cute and inexpensive wares and thereby deserving of the French association in her mind.
Etymology : Derived from the analogous French pronounciation of the "-get" portion of the word "Target." The French implies higher class, but can be implied as oxymoronic as well.
Source : My mom
Last modified: 10 June 2008