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Helena Eagan in Severance Season 2, Episode 2

Severance Season 2: What Does ‘Fetid Moppet’ Mean?

Warning: The following article contains spoilers for Severance Season 2, Episode 2, “Goodbye, Mrs. Selvig.”

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One of the more memorable moments in Severance‘s latest episode sees Helena Eagan’s father, Jame, brand her a “fetid moppet.” So, what does “fetid moppet” mean, and why does Jame fling such a… unique insult at his daughter in Severance Season 2, Episode 2?

What ‘Fetid Moppet’ Means in Severance Season 2, Episode 2?

Helena Eagan looking at her reflection in a window in Severance Season 2, Episode 2

As noted above, Lumon Industries CEO Jame Eagan spares just two words for Helena during their brief encounter early in Severance Season 2, Episode 2’s flashback narrative: “fetid moppet.” Neither term sees much use in the average person’s vocabulary these days, leaving many viewers with only a general idea of Jame’s sentiments, thanks to the context of the scene itself (he’s clearly not happy with Helena following the events of Season 1’s finale).

Related: Severance Season 2: What’s the Significance of Mr. Drummond’s Tattoo in Episode 2?

But what is the exact translation of Jame’s throwback burn? Well, “fetid” is an adjective that means really smelly. Meanwhile, “moppet” is a cutesy word for a small child (and usually carries a more affectionate tone). So, Jame literally called Helena a stinky kid; however, that’s probably not what he actually meant. Instead, it’s more likely Helena’s old man was labeling her an unpleasant brat.

Why Does Jame Eagan Call Helena a ‘Fetid Moppet’ in Severance Season 2, Episode 2?

That’s the definition of “fetid moppet” covered – but why did Jame Eagan settle on such an off-the-wall put-down for Helena? The most obvious answer is that Jame’s phrasing reflects the archaic vernacular Lumon employees –especially those at management level – often adopt. This in turn ties into the wider, quasi-religious atmosphere Lumon cultivates around its founder, Kier Eagan, and his life and teachings.

Related: Severance Season 2: Where Does Episode 2 Fit In the Series Timeline?

There’s also a non-zero chance that Jame referred to Helena as “moppet” when she was growing up, as a term of endearment. If that is indeed the case, then bolting “fetid” on the front is his way of emphasizing to her just how deep in his bad books she currently is!

Severance Season 2 is currently streaming on Apple TV+, with new episodes dropping Fridays.


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Image of Leon Miller
Leon Miller
Contributing Writer
Leon is a freelance contributor at The Escapist, covering movies, TV, video games, and comics. Active in the industry since 2016, Leon's previous by-lines include articles for Polygon, Popverse, Screen Rant, CBR, Dexerto, Cultured Vultures, PanelxPanel, Taste of Cinema, and more.