Why is the word Gate used when referring to some underhanded act i.e. watergate,spygate,jetgate?
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ShoulderPadQueen
ANSWERS: 2
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The Watergate apartment complex (which is near the water in Washington, DC) was the site of nefarious activities in the 1970s backed by then-President Nixon. Ever since then, "-gate" has been applied to many scandals. It's just a common usage that has become popular. It doesn't mean a whole lot. FYI, Monica Lewinsky had an apartment at the Watergate. Probably lots of other famous (or infamous) people have, also.
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The gate was part of the name of the first place that was burgled, Watergate. Then when the media or others talk about other scandals, now they tack on the 'gate' part. But the gate was original to Watergate. The name comes from some steps or 'gates' at the sides in the river where the complex was built. A gate is like a part of a dam or water terrace
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