vellichor

1. The strange wistfulness of used bookstores.

   synonyms:nostalgiasentimentality

The term 'vellichor' is a neologism coined by John Koenig in his project 'The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows', combining the Latin 'vellus' (meaning 'fleece') and 'ichor' (the fluid that flows in the veins of the gods in Greek mythology).

Commonly used in literary or artistic discussions, particularly when referring to feelings evoked by old books and their environments.

While 'vellichor' captures a very specific sentiment, it is not widely used in everyday conversation, making it more of a niche term among book lovers and writers.

As I entered the quaint little bookstore, the vellichor enveloped me, bringing back memories of my childhood adventures in reading.

There’s a unique vellichor that permeates the air of this library, a scent that speaks of stories waiting to be discovered.

Each time I browse through the dusty shelves, I feel a wave of vellichor wash over me, reminding me of all the forgotten tales.

Vellichor is a delightful word that encapsulates a feeling many book lovers know all too well. It describes the poignant sense of nostalgia that one experiences in a used bookstore, surrounded by the scent of aging paper and the whispers of stories long told. Coined by John Koenig, this modern term combines elements from Latin and Greek to evoke a feeling that transcends time. Whether you're an avid reader or just someone who appreciates the charm of old books, vellichor is a term that beautifully captures the magic of literary spaces.