Back in the 50s and 60s when all of the 2nd Generation Armenian-Americans were fruit growers in the San Joaquin Valley, they used the word "thing" a lot. Especially when they couldn't immediately remember a word.

"Hey, Berge, what's the name of that BBQ you bought for your family?"

"Uh, you know, 'thing.' I bought it at Montgomery Warda. Thing. Thing! Ah hell, I can't remember. I'll look at it tonight and call you at home."