Babel's intriguing zmeiki

[Jules Levin]

At 08:57 AM 1/27/2006, you wrote:
>>Yes, _zmeika_ is a synonym for _molniia_, but in the meaning "zipper,"
>>not "lightning."
>>
>>Bob Rothstein

Excuse me for intruding in the middle of this discussion, but how old 
is the meaning "zipper",
invented c. 1913, patented 1917, used first in boots and tobacco 
pouches.  Not generally accepted
by the clothing industry for another 20 years.  Those who remember 
the 40's will confirm that
flies (pl. flys?) were only buttoned (or unbuttoned, as the case may 
be...) at that time.
Besides, how quickly did the zipper reach Russia?  Isn't some 
anachronism going on here?
Jules Levin

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