Showerthoughts

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A "Showerthought" is a simple term used to describe the thoughts that pop into your head while you're doing everyday things like taking a shower, driving, or just daydreaming. A showerthought should offer a unique perspective on an ordinary part of life.

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Why do men call their father their "old man", but their "old lady" is their wife? (sh.itjust.works)

submitted 6 months ago by baggachipz@sh.itjust.works to c/showerthoughts@lemmy.world

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[–] AbouBenAdhem@lemmy.world 23 points 6 months ago* (last edited 6 months ago) (1 children)

I think they’re terms men often apply to whichever figure in the household represents the greatest constraint on their actions (or the person to whom they most defer).

If they’re married, that’s their spouse, but if they’re living with their parents in a traditional male-dominated household, it’s their father.

[–] nehal3m@sh.itjust.works 20 points 6 months ago* (last edited 6 months ago)

Funny, I've always thought of them as terms of honour. At least that's why I called my father old man. He called his captain that back when he was a sailor. (second edit: fun fact, his last captain was my grandpa on mom's side. Guess he liked the captain's daughter.)

edit: I guess it's a way to acknowledge seniority.