New Word Fi Da Ting Deh!

Dear Fellow Jamaicans and Caribbean friends,

I propose a new word for inclusion in a dictionary of the Jamaican language: Billioneering.

Given the economic and political realities of our time, I would love to hear your thoughts on its relevance and utility.

Dennis Minott: 'Etymology of Billioneering -- A blend of "billionaire" and "-eering" (as in profiteering), the term conveys active, strategic, and often unscrupulous accumulation of wealth through systemic advantage....

Billioneering (verb, gerund/noun)

Definition: The calculated and often exploitative pursuit of extreme wealth and power by billionaires, typically through state capture, regulatory manipulation, monopolistic practices, or political influence. Billioneering frequently involves distorting governance, undermining fair competition, and reshaping legal and economic structures to serve the interests of an ultra-wealthy elite at the expense of the general public.

Etymology: A blend of “billionaire” and “-eering” (as in profiteering), the term conveys active, strategic, and often unscrupulous accumulation of wealth through systemic advantage rather than meritocratic enterprise.

Example Usage:

• Through billioneering, a handful of oligarchs gained control over vital national industries, locking out competitors and dictating government policy.

• The Guptas' involvement in South African politics showcased billioneering at its peak, where private wealth dictated state decisions.

• Tech giants have mastered the art of billioneering, leveraging laws and tax loopholes to amass unprecedented financial and political power.

I look forward to your insights.

Here’s a further list of 10 verb infinitives ending in "-eer" that, like "profiteer," often carry a negative or opportunistic connotation:

1. Buccaneer – To act like a pirate, often implying lawlessness or plundering.

2. Cavalier – To act with disregard or a lack of proper concern.

3. Charioteer – To recklessly or aggressively drive (historically used negatively).

4. Chevalier – To behave in a pompous or over-heroic manner.

5. Electioneer – To manipulate or aggressively campaign for political advantage.

6. Extortioneer – To engage in extortion or coercive financial practices.

7. Musketeer – To fight or engage in duels, often recklessly.

8. Pamphleteer – To write inflammatory or biased political pamphlets.

9. Privateer – To engage in state-sanctioned piracy for profit.

10. Press-gangeer – To forcibly recruit or coerce individuals into service.

by Dennis A. Minott, PhD.

January 31, 2025.