We found the story behind "whim wham for a mucket"!
985. This week, we look at the world of whimsical words, including the origins and meanings of terms like "dinkus," "gadzook," "petrichor" and the phrase "whim-wham for a goose's bridle." Plus, I have...
14 Maj 202415min
Words, coffee, and urban planning: Eli Burnstein on the Dictionary of Fine Distinctions
984. This week, we talk about the subtle differences between words such as "stock" or "broth," "street" or "boulevard," "maze" or "labyrinth" and more with Eli Burnstein, author of "The Dictionary of ...
9 Maj 202426min
Skunked words. The power of pronouns. Quigleys
983. This week, we explore "skunked" words — terms going through hotly disputed meaning changes. We look at the debate between prescriptivists who stick to traditional meanings and descriptivists who ...
7 Maj 202417min
Air worms and fire breathing dragons: Old English animal stories with Hana Videen
982. This week, we delve into the fascinating world of Old English with medievalist Hana Videen, author of "The Deorhord." We'll uncover the secrets of Old English animal names, from "walking weaver"...
2 Maj 202430min
When (and How) Should You Cite AI? 'Critters,' 'Varmints,' and Beyond. Choobers.
981. Major style guides now have advice on when and how you should cite AI chatbots such as ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini. We look at what you need to include in your writing so you're handling this kin...
30 Apr 202417min
Exploring the 'Funnest' Parts of Language with Anne Curzan
980. This week, I talk with with Anne Curzan about the fascinating world of language evolution, her new book, "Says Who? A Kinder, Funner Usage Guide for Everyone Who Cares About Language," and why li...
25 Apr 202433min
The birth of punctuation: from oral traditions to silent reading. Noun clusters. A wing wang in a mucket.
979. In the first segment, we unravel the mysteries surrounding the origins and transformation of punctuation. From the early days when words ran together without spaces, to the introduction of punctu...
23 Apr 202416min
How to become a supercommunicator, with Charles Duhigg
978. Join Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and bestselling author, Charles Duhigg, as we talk about mastering the art of communication and his new book, "Supercommunicators." We explore the skills an...
18 Apr 202419min
