Lexical items incorporating both “w” and “z” are relatively uncommon in English. Examples include “wizen,” meaning to shrink or wither, and “wizened,” its adjectival form describing something shrunken or wrinkled. “Switzerland” is a prominent geographical example. Less common examples, often found in specialized contexts, include “zwitterion,” a term from chemistry, and “Fitzwilliam,” a surname.
The scarcity of such words contributes to their distinctiveness. Their presence can add a unique flavor to writing, particularly in creative contexts. While their infrequent occurrence makes them less central to everyday communication, their unusual nature can make them memorable and impactful. Historically, the letters “w” and “z” have undergone shifts in pronunciation and usage, influencing the development and adoption of these terms.