Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris cover image

Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris

Introducing Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris

Mar 25, 2024
Join two word enthusiasts as they delve into the fascinating etymology of quirky terms. Discover the intriguing origins of modern slang and the layered meanings behind words like 'factoid.' They also shed light on the historical context of 'secretary' and trace the evolution of greetings such as 'hello.' This playful exploration reveals how language shapes our daily lives.
01:39

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The podcast highlights how folk etymology shapes the understanding of words, exemplified by the controversial rise of 'riz' as word of the year.
  • Exploring the historical origins of words like 'secretary' and 'hello' reveals the significant shifts in language and meaning over time.

Deep dives

The Evolution and Misconceptions of Words

The episode discusses the evolution of language and common misconceptions surrounding certain terms. For instance, 'riz,' which stands for charisma, was declared the word of the year despite controversy regarding its etymology. This illustrates how folk etymology can influence people's understanding of language, as terms often gain meanings that deviate from their original usage. Additionally, the hosts clarify that 'factoid' refers to a fact-shaped non-fact, emphasizing that not all widely-recognized pieces of information are true.

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