H

n 1: a nonmetallic univalent element that is normally a colorless

and odorless highly flammable diatomic gas; the simplest

and lightest and most abundant element in the universe

[syn: {hydrogen}, {H}, {atomic number 1}]

2: a unit of inductance in which an induced electromotive force

of one volt is produced when the current is varied at the

rate of one ampere per second [syn: {henry}, {H}]

3: a morphine derivative [syn: {heroin}, {diacetyl morphine}, {H},

{horse}, {junk}, {scag}, {shit}, {smack}]

h

1. A simple {markup} language intended for quick conversion of

existing text to {hypertext}.

2. A method of marking common words to call attention to the

fact that they are being used in a nonstandard, ironic, or

humorous way. Originated in the fannish catchphrase "Bheer

is the One True Ghod!" from decades ago. H-infix marking of

"Ghod" and other words spread into the 1960s counterculture

via underground comix, and into early hackerdom either from

the counterculture or from SF fandom (the three overlapped

heavily at the time). More recently, the h infix has become

an expected feature of benchmark names (Dhrystone, Rhealstone,

etc.); this follows on from the original Whetstone (the name

of a laboratory) but may have been influenced by the

fannish/counterculture h infix.

[{Jargon File}]

(1994-11-04)