ghost bus

Ghost buses refer to the phenomenon where an individual coins a highly specific term and incessantly promotes its usage, persistently inserting the newly coined term into conversations with the aim of provoking inquiries. The person then seizes the opportunity to explain the term to others, feigning surprise that it is not already a universally recognized concept. This behavior is characterized by a deliberate attempt to establish the invented term as common vernacular, creating an illusion that everyone else is ostensibly familiar with it.

Dialogue exchange between Representative Glen Clay Higgins and FBI Director Christopher Asher Wray:

Higgins: "You know what a ghost vehicle is, Director Wray? You're the director of the FBI; you certainly should. Do you know what a ghost bus is?"

Wray: "A ghost bus?"

Higgins: "Ghost bus!"

Wray: "I'm not sure I've used that term before."

Higgins: "Okay, it's pretty common in law enforcement. It's a vehicle that's used for secret purposes. It's painted over."