- Published on
(A proofreader's note regarding “callous” and “callus”)
A calling in common have “callus” and “callous,”
“Hard skin” in the Latin as root,
But origins closer have rendered a contrast
Through function-words acting to suit.
For “callus” derives from “a skin that is thickened”
And “callous” from “thick-skinned/hard.”
So “callus” as noun in most cases will function;
The other is adjective at heart.
Thus “callus” is meant as “a hard thickened area
Of skin or plant tissue or bone
That forms after injury or pressure or friction”--
A natural response that is known.
With “callous,” instead, we have most a descriptor
That “hardened and thickened” will say;
“Insensitive,” also, and “lacking true feeling”
And “having a callus” its way.
Yet both of these words may be verbs in their usage,
Less commonly, though, it appears:
“To bring about calluses—forming them onto,”
“To make a thing callous” with tears.
Since “having a callus” from “callous” arises,
The verbs will of overlap tell.
So “callused” and “calloused” contend to be used
Interchangeably well where they mell.
“By offering a hand that was callous and dirty,
He meant to show callous consent.
His palm with its confluence of calluses countless
Was spurned by both lady and gent.”