My simple supposition is that words are sometimes inadequate to describe certain ideas.
My counter, in the instant circumstance, is that words are sometimes quite adequate. You just have to have enough of them, starting with those that lay the basic foundations and following with those that build on them. In this case my exchange with DC requires a lot of technical foundation in order for any of it to become comprehensible.
But... I still don't know what a "sideboy" is.
I am tired and need rest. Manana, Morgen, etc...
A form of rendering honors to visiting officials. Side Honors (Middle of linked handbook)
"Enlisted women may be detailed to this duty, but they are still called side boys."