Dime idioms. ‘HoCo’ and syllable acronyms. Pulling a Trevor
1118. This week, we look at the origins of idioms related to the word "dime," like "turn on a dime" and "get off the dime." We also look at a special kind of acronym that uses syllables, and how words...
23 Sep 202514min
How algorithms are changing the meaning of words, with Adam Aleksic
1117. This week, we talk with Adam Aleksic, also known as the Etymology Nerd, about the ways algorithms are changing the meaning of words. We look at how words like "preppy" have evolved and how socia...
18 Sep 202514min
The pirate history of ‘scallywag.’ ‘Used to’ versus ‘use to.’ Cheese grits.
1116. This week, we clarify the origins of the word "Schnauzer" and why it may mean "snout," "growler," or "mustache." Then, in honor of Talk Like a Pirate Day, we look at the true origins of the word...
16 Sep 202514min
From clay tablets to the Gutenberg press, with Keith Houston
1115. This week, we talk with Keith Houston about his book, "The Book." We look at how writing technology evolved from clay tablets and bamboo slips to papyrus and paper. He shares some surprising fac...
11 Sep 202525min
Why we have indents. More on Formica. Running on Edgar.
1114. This week, we look at the history and purpose of indents, from medieval manuscripts to modern word processors, and the difference between a first-line indent and a hanging indent. Then, we look ...
9 Sep 202519min
The surprising ways we gesture about time and space, with Lauren Gawne
1113. This week, we talk with linguist Lauren Gawne about her book "Gesture: A Slim Guide." We look at how different cultures gesture about abstract concepts like time and space, and how we unknowingl...
4 Sep 202522min
Vonnegut’s semicolon rule. What age has to do with language. Chocolate donut.
1112. This week, we look at why you can safely ignore Kurt Vonnegut’s famous advice about ignoring semicolons. We also look at why taking punctuation advice from fiction writers may not be a good idea...
2 Sep 202515min
Why we say 'near miss.' How dogs got their names. Stupid dog Jackie.
1111. This week, we look at the phrase "near miss" and why this seemingly illogical term actually makes sense. Then, in honor of National Dog Day, we look at how 16 different dog breeds got their name...
26 Aug 202518min
