Tom Swifties are adverbial puns. They were originated by Edward Stratemeyer
in a series of strip cartoons about a character called Tom Swift. “That was
in the USA in the 1920s” Ed states decadently.
Here are some of my favorites with the letter “a” – (it will be a while
before you see those with adverbs starting with “b”, so don’t worry. “I’m
pulling out my hair over them,” Tom bawled.)
“I’m wearing my wedding ring,” said Tom with abandon.
“Who would want to steal modern art?” asked Tom abstractedly.
“Now I can chop down that tree,” said Tom with a heavy accent.
“Let’s all play an A, a C sharp, and an E,” cried Tom’s band with one
accord.
“I think the salad dressing needs more vinegar,” said Tom acidly.
“They are not answering – we’d better try the knocker,” said Tom adoringly.
“Fire!” yelled Tom alarmingly.
“I’m resting halfway up a mountain,” Tom alleged.
“There’s no need for silence,” Tom allowed.
“It’s a unit of electric current,” said Tom amply.
“This is a delicious Golden Delicious,” said Tom applaudingly.
“My investments are worth more every day,” said Tom appreciatively.
“I’ll take that,” said Tom appropriately.
“2 bdrm furn w c/h,” said Tom aptly.
“It’s between my sole and my heel,” said Tom archly.
“You have the right to remain silent,” said Tom arrestingly.
“I decide which car to purchase after looking at the pictures,” wrote Tom
autobiographically.
~~
Dr Bob Griffin, www.grif.net
“Jesus knows me, this I love”