English changes all the time, often in subtle ways—so it’s not surprising that we’ve lost many delightful words and phrases along the way. In his wonderful book Forgotten English, Jeffrey Kacirk takes a closer look at the origins and histories of these language relics. Here are a few of our favorite words from the book; for more, check out Kacirk’s website.

1. ASTROLOGAMAGE

The medieval era’s Miss Cleos, these so-called wise men made predictions based on what was happening in the sky.

2. CRAPULENCE

Forgotten English Kacirk, Jeffrey Best Price: $0.38 Buy New $7.24 (as of 03:50 UTC - Details) This word, from the Latin root crapula, arose in the 18th century. According to Kacirk, it “denoted intestinal and cranial distress … arising from intemperance and debauchery.” Put another way: If you get crunk, expect crapulence.

3. EYE-SERVANT

A term describing a servant who did his duty only lazily except when within sight of his master, “a form of insincerity known as ‘eye-service,'” Kacirk notes. Replace servant with employee and master with the boss, and you could probably know a few people to whom this term would apply.

4. FLITTERWOCHEN

This Old English expression (probably borrowed from German) meant “fleeting weeks,” and refers to what we today call a honeymoon. Flitterwochen is, obviously, a much better word.

5. FRIBBLER

Though this term comes from the 18th century, chances are you know a fribbler. He says he’s really into a lady but just won’t commit. The behavior of a fribbler was called fribbledom, by the way.

The Word Museum: The M... Kacirk, Jeffrey Best Price: $1.10 Buy New $4.52 (as of 03:40 UTC - Details) 6. GROANING-CHEESE

Back in the day, husbands didn’t just hold their wives’ hands during childbirth—they gave them the medieval version of an epidural: Cheese. Groaning-cheese was said to soothe a lady in labor, and so husbands paired it with groaning-cake and groaning-drink.

7. GROG-BLOSSOM

A word from the 18th century for the dilation of blood vessels—caused by long-term overconsumption of the drink—in an alcoholic’s nose.

8. LETTICE-CAP

A medical device (which Kacirk says resembles a hair net) that was used in the 16th and 17th centuries. After the patient’s head was shaved, the cap was filled with herbs and placed on his head, supposedly curing him of ailments like headaches and insomnia.

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