Literary notes about wangle (AI summary)
In literature, the word "wangle" serves a dual purpose: it functions as both a character’s surname and, more intriguingly, as a colloquial verb denoting the act of cleverly procuring or maneuvering one’s way through a problem. Authors use it to evoke a sense of resourcefulness or cunning, as when a character remarks they will "wangle this matter out" with artful ease [1], or when someone secures an extra day's leave through clever manipulation [2]. It also appears in situations where obtaining a job or favor is presented with a wry, conversational tone—illustrating the characters’ knack for artful negotiation or sly persistence in achieving their aims [3][4][5].
- Joe, couldn't you go and play golf this afternoon whilst I wangle this matter out?"
— from Bones in London by Edgar Wallace - 'I'm due to go today, but the grouse up in Caithness wanted shootin' so badly that I decided to wangle another day's leave.
— from Mr. Standfast by John Buchan - "Have it as you like, Captain Dawnay-Devenish," I said, "but before I go tell me, how did you wangle this job?"
— from Punch, or the London Charivari, Volume 156, April 16, 1919 by Various - I had a specially bad one, and managed with great skill to wangle a fortnight's sick leave in Paris.
— from Fanny Goes to War by Pat Beauchamp Washington - It won't worry me again, and with a cork leg I'll be able to wangle a rudder-bar.
— from Winning His Wings: A Story of the R.A.F. by Percy F. (Percy Francis) Westerman