Wakalixes

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Wakalixes is an ambiguous noun used as a filler where any other noun could be substituted. It is used to illustrate that some terminology, particularly that used in science and mathematics, does not contribute any knowledge. Most times, Wakalixes are used in a failed attempt to explain something.

Wakalixes is a term coined by Richard Feynman. He coined it for this passage:"Judging books by their covers" in "Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynmann", p. 271. (Bantam 1986)

I turned the page. The answer was, for the wind-up toy, "Energy makes it go." And for the boy on the bicycle, "Energy makes it go." For everything "Energy makes it go."

Now that doesn't mean anything. Suppose it's "Wakalixes." That's the general principle: "Wakalixes makes it go." There is no knowledge coming in. The child doesn't learn anything; it's just a word.

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