

A snaky freeway stowaway; Scotland’s Nessy explanation; ‘checkmate’ champs battle it out; and ‘brain rot’ takes the crown.
Dec 3, 2024
Discover how 'brain rot' became Oxford's Word of the Year, reflecting on today's slang! Dive into the ongoing mystery of the Loch Ness Monster and the surprising revelations behind snake encounters in vehicles. Witness the high-stakes chess showdown in Singapore, featuring global champions vying for a whopping $2.5 million. Plus, there's a festive call-out for listeners to engage with Santa in a fun Q&A session. Get ready for quizzes and celebrations that make news exciting for kids!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Brain Rot
- "Brain rot," describing mental mush from excessive mindless scrolling, is Oxford's 2024 Word of the Year.
- Gen Z and Alpha slang significantly influenced this choice, marking a first-time impact.
Balancing Screen Time
- Balance screen time with outdoor activities during holidays.
- Too much low-quality online content can lead to "brain rot."
Tower of London Graffiti
- Researchers used lasers to decipher ancient graffiti at the Tower of London, revealing messages from prisoners.
- The carvings included astrological symbols, dates, and personal messages from the 1500s.