Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing ‘Spark words’ and the hidden history of ‘panic’ and ‘Ritalin,’ with Martha Barnette
Jul 31, 2025
Martha Barnette, co-host of "A Way with Words" and author, dives into the enchanting world of language. She introduces the concept of 'spark words,' igniting passion in language lovers. The discussion traverses fascinating etymologies, including the surprising links between 'panic' and ancient Greek roots. Barnette also reveals the whimsical history behind terms like 'flashlight' and explores how cultural narratives shape language, celebrating its evolution and playful nature.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Martha's Spark Word
- Martha Barnette's spark word was 'vestigium,' the Latin word for footprint.
- Discovering its connection to English words like 'investigate' ignited her love for language.
Nike, Fennel, and Victory
- The Greek word for fennel, Marathon, links to the famous Battle of Marathon and Nike, the goddess of victory.
- Nike became the name for a shoe brand symbolizing triumph, tying ancient Greek history to modern culture.
Language as Fossil Poetry
- Ralph Waldo Emerson described etymology as finding poetry fossilized in language.
- Words like 'Atlas' preserve ancient mythology in everyday language.
