When Is a Surge Not a Surge?

There are many definitions of the word "surge." It can be a noun or a verb, and it can refer to water, electricity, or the onrush of almost anything. George W. Bush and his administration have succeeded in adding a new definition, originally based on parts of the old ones, but meaning something new: a sustained increase in soldiers into a war zone for a long period of time. Sure, it once sort of made sense, and sounded kind of "rah-rah" cool. But aren't we a little past calling this thing a surge?

Now, apparently, even when the "surge" is over, we will still have more soldiers deployed than before the surge. Do we call that a trickle?

[Excerpt]

U.S. expects 140,000 troops in Iraq after surge

The United States expects to have 140,000 troops in Iraq in July after withdrawing five combat brigades, leaving a force larger than before it began pouring in troops last year, the Pentagon said on Monday. . .

Read more at: Reuters