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Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris
Who is the Jack in a deck of cards? | GAME WORDS
Nov 20, 2024
Uncover the whimsical history behind our favorite games! Explore how 'chess' and 'poker' earned their names, and discover the true meaning of a 'pawn.' Ever wanted to know how Jenga got its title? Dive into the art of Scrabble and learn about high-scoring words, while also teasing out the origins of popular childhood games. Finally, unravel the significance of the 'Jack' in playing cards. Get ready for a fun-filled journey through the etymology of entertainment!
43:02
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast delves into the etymology of popular games, revealing how names reflect cultural significance and historical origins.
- Rob and Jess discuss the impact of chess on language, tracing terms like 'checkmate' back to Persian and Arabic roots.
Deep dives
The Origin of the Word 'Game'
The word 'game' is derived from Old English and has cognates across various Germanic languages, all connoting joy and fun. Historical uses of the term included references to both amusement and specific types of games, such as chess and professional sports. Interestingly, Shakespeare referred to 'game' to indicate general enjoyment rather than competitive play, showcasing its versatility. The term has also been used as a euphemism for sex throughout history, illustrating its broader cultural significance.
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Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode