Exploring language evolution, the podcast delves into the origins of words like 'acrobat' and 'come'. From superhero attire to English spelling quirks, the discussion covers the transformation of sounds and meanings spanning from Old English to Proto-Indo-European. Unraveling the complexity of prefixes and verb shifts in English and Germanic languages reveals the dynamic nature of language.
The evolution of language reveals surprising connections between words like 'come' and 'acrobat'.
English spelling anomalies stem from historical ambiguities and complexities with similar-looking letters.
Deep dives
The Origin of the Word 'Come'
The podcast delves into the etymology of the seemingly mundane word 'come', tracing its roots from Old English 'kuman' to its Proto-Indo-European origin 'gua'. The discussion highlights the evolution of the word, illustrating how linguistic changes over time transformed 'gua' into 'kuman' and eventually 'come'. The episode explores the random nature of language evolution, revealing connections between 'come' and surprising words like 'acrobat', demonstrating the intricate journey of language development.
English Spelling and the Letter 'O'
The episode sheds light on English spelling anomalies, specifically focusing on the use of the letter 'O' in words like 'come'. It explains that historical ambiguities with similar-looking letters led to the unconventional spelling of words like 'come' to differentiate them from others. The discussion highlights how nuances in writing systems and historical practices influenced modern English spelling, showcasing examples like 'sum', 'worm', 'tongue', and 'monk'. The intricacies of English spelling are attributed to various historical factors, including the need to clarify ambiguous letter forms.
Variations in Past Tense Forms and Colloquial Usage
The podcast explores the unexpected variations in past tense forms, particularly focusing on 'cum' and 'came'. It reveals how the past tense form 'came' in English was influenced by Viking invaders, leading to an unconventional deviation from the expected 'cum'. The episode also delves into colloquial dialects and historical usage, illustrating how phrases like 'he come' were once prevalent in certain English dialects. The discussion highlights the organic evolution of language and the influence of historical events on linguistic structures.