Grand
The word in question is a compound word. The first part of this compound word is a word that means big, large, awesome, piano, and showoff… I think.
Grand
adjective
- a :Having more importance than others
b :Having higher rank than others bearing the same general designation - a :Inclusive. Comprehensive
b :Definitive, Incontrovertible - :Chief, Principle
- :Large and striking in size, scope, extent, or conception
- a :Lavish, Sumptuous
b :Marked by a regal form and dignity
c :Fine or imposing in appearance or impression
d :Lofty, Sublime - a :Pretending to social superiority :supercilious
b :Intended to impress - :Very good :wonderful
Yep, pretty much what I thought.
Not An Animal Foot
Some people pronounce the second part of this compound word in the same way they would pronounce the foot of an animal with toes and claws. They would say it like “paw.” Therein lies the controversy.
The actual spelling of the word is pa, and it could be pronounced “pah,” like in pot, ‘possum, or “Pa! Half pint just punched Nelly in the face!”
Personally, probably because of the geographic area in which I was reared, I prefer the “paw” pronunciation, but not the spelling.
Compounded
When you put the two words together what you have is something that sounds like “the most important, impressive, wonderful animal foot,” but the way you should spell it is…
GRANDPA.
How would you pronounce it?
Details to follow. IF you’re interested, that is.
The Recovering Legalist 