Can you use ‘epicenter’ for positive things? The etymology of ‘bro.’ Mukwonago, Oconomowoc.
1120. This week, we look at tricky uses of the word "epicenter" and how people feel about using it metaphorically. We also look at where the word “brother” came from and how it branched into “bro,” “b...
30 Sep 202516min
Adapting a classic: from words to watercolors, with K. Woodman-Maynard
1119. This week, we talk with illustrator and cartoonist K. Woodman-Maynard about her new graphic novel adaptation of "Tuck Everlasting." We look at the creative process of adapting a beloved book, in...
25 Sep 202524min
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
