Definitions

from The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition.

  • noun A search of a person, especially by an officer of the law, in order to find a hidden object or substance, such as a gun, explosive, or illegal drug, made usually by patting the clothed body and sometimes by examining bodily orifices.

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  • A friend has recently returned from a journey to the US. Apparently at LAX there is a sign at customs which reads (and I think I've got this right):

    "You may elect a private area* for your body search."

    Can I choose the inside of my left elbow? Or my oxter?

    *it may have been "private location"

    October 21, 2008

  • Oxter! I forgot all about that lovely word!

    October 21, 2008

  • When I went through Los Angeles airport I was surprised at all the signs referring to LAX Security. Course this was in more carefree days, but still.

    October 21, 2008